Winter roads may be safer with salt, but does road salt damage cars? Unfortunately, the answer is yes. While road salt helps melt ice and improve traction, it can also lead to serious damage to your vehicle over time. Understanding how road salt car damage occurs and how to prevent it can save you from costly repairs down the line.
How Road Salt Builds Up on Vehicles
During winter, road crews spread salt on streets and highways to prevent ice buildup and improve driving conditions. As you drive, your tires kick up salt, which then sticks to the undercarriage, wheel wells, and lower body panels of your car. Since salt is very corrosive, it can stay on your vehicle for weeks, wearing down exposed metal and paint.
Moisture from snow and ice exacerbates the issue. When salt mixes with water, it speeds up the oxidation process, leading to rust and corrosion. The longer the salt stays on your vehicle, the greater the risk of permanent damage.
What Kind of Damage Does Road Salt Cause?
Salt damage on cars can affect multiple parts of your vehicle, especially those most exposed to slush and road debris. Here are some of the most common problems caused by road salt:
- Rust and Corrosion – The biggest issue with road salt is that it accelerates rust formation, especially on the undercarriage, wheel wells, and exhaust system. Over time, rust can weaken structural components and lead to costly repairs.
- Brake System Wear – Salt buildup can corrode brake lines and rotors, reducing braking efficiency and increasing safety risks.
- Paint Damage – Salt chips away at protective paint coatings, making the surface more vulnerable to rust.
- Suspension Issues – Salt exposure can wear down suspension components, affecting how your vehicle handles.
Without proper care, road salt car damage can lead to major repair costs and even compromise your vehicle’s safety.
How Often Should You Wash Your Car in Winter?
Regular washing is the best way to prevent road salt damage on cars. Here are a few tips to keep your car in good condition during winter months:
- Wash your car every two weeks – Frequent washes remove salt buildup and prevent long-term damage.
- Rinse after snowstorms – Rinse your car after a heavy snowfall or when roads are heavily salted to prevent salt from settling.
- Focus on the undercarriage – Pay special attention to the underbody, wheel wells, and suspension, as these areas are most affected by salt.
- Use a protective wax coat – Applying a layer of wax before winter helps create a barrier against salt and moisture.
- Visit an automatic car wash – Many car washes offer undercarriage cleaning, which helps remove salt from hard-to-reach areas.
Regular washing and maintenance help reduce road salt damage and keep your car lasting longer.
Need Affordable Replacement Parts? Visit Aero Auto Parts
If road salt has taken a toll on your vehicle and you need replacement parts, Aero Auto Parts has you covered. We sell quality used auto parts at low prices, making it easy to fix rusted or damaged parts without spending too much. Call us today or stop by our Chicago location to find the parts you need to keep your car running well all winter.
