How Winter Road Salt Affects Your Car and What to Do About It

Winter in New Jersey often means snow and ice, which brings road salt as a necessary evil to keep roads drivable. However, this salt doesn't come without cost. It can cause significant damage to your car if left unchecked. As we move into spring, now is the perfect time to address any potential salt damage before it turns into bigger problems.

WHY IT MATTERS

Ignoring the impact of road salt can lead to corrosion of your vehicle's metal parts, including the undercarriage, brake lines, and other critical components. This corrosion doesn't happen overnight but gradually, over time, it can weaken these parts and lead to costly repairs. More importantly, if critical systems like the brakes or the subframe become corroded, it might compromise the safety of your vehicle.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR / DO IT YOURSELF

Start by giving your car a thorough wash — especially underneath. This will remove any salt residues. Pay attention to the car's underbody, wheel wells, and other areas where salt accumulates. After washing, inspect for any signs of rust or corrosion.

Check the paint for any bubbling or chipping, as these can be signs that salt has started to impact the surface. The metal underneath is susceptible to rust once the paint layers are breached.

Look at the brake lines and other exposed metal parts under the car for white powdery deposits, which could indicate salt corrosion. Also inspect the exhaust system since this can rust over time due to salt build-up.

If you're comfortable with it, you can apply a rust-proofing product to areas that are prone to rust, but make sure you read the instructions carefully and check that it's appropriate for your vehicle.

WHEN TO TAKE IT IN

If you notice visible rust, especially on any critical structural parts or systems like the brake lines, don't delay in addressing this. Should your brakes feel less responsive or you hear grinding or strange noises after driving on salted roads, these are signs that you need to have your car looked at by a professional.

In such cases, call EZ Autos. We'll check for rust and potential salt damage and advise on the necessary repairs. It's better to address these issues sooner rather than later to avoid more serious problems.

CLOSING

Road salt can be a silent enemy to your vehicle's longevity and safety. Spring is the ideal time to take preventive measures. If you're uncertain or notice any signs of salt damage, feel free to reach out to EZ Autos. We're here to provide a fair assessment and help you keep your car in good condition. Call us for an inspection or second opinion if you have any doubts.