Whether you tackle the task yourself or opt for a car wash, keeping your vehicle clean during winter can be a challenge. It may seem counterintuitive; your fingers might freeze when washing by hand, and if you go through an automated car wash, your car seems to attract dirt the moment it leaves.
Yet, maintaining a clean car is a crucial aspect of car care that contributes to its longevity and could save you from expensive repairs down the road.
Skyler McKinley, the local regional director for AAA, shared insights with FOX31 on why regular car washes are especially important in winter and the risks associated with neglecting this aspect of maintenance.
Why bother washing when it gets dirty so quickly?
While the immediate satisfaction of a clean car is undeniable, McKinley’s recommendations focus on more practical reasons. It's about removing the salt and deicing chemical buildup that accumulates on your car during winter.
Liquid deicing solutions, increasingly popular for their ability to melt snow and pre-treat roads, contain corrosive chemicals. McKinley explains, “As much as they are good for clearing ice and snow, they have a damaging effect on your vehicle.”
The same applies to solid salt used for melting ice and snow. These chemicals can seep into cracks and crevices, accelerating corrosion and posing a threat to the reliability and safety of your vehicle.
What happens if you ignore the salt and deicers?
Failure to wash off deicers can lead to rust-related damage affecting your vehicle's body, brake lines, exhaust systems, fuel tanks, and electrical connections. According to a 2017 study by AAA, about 15% of U.S. drivers in winter climate regions had to get at least one vehicle repair over five years due to rust damage caused by salt and other chemicals, with an average cost of $490 per repair.
Additionally, deicing solutions can cause cosmetic damage, especially when scratches or chipped paint expose bare metal.
Tips for protecting your car from deicers
McKinley recommends washing your car at least once a month, all year round, and more frequently in winter. After each major storm, it's ideal to give your car a thorough wash.
The undercarriage and lower parts of the car, such as the brakes, are most susceptible to rust damage. Look for a car wash with an undercarriage washing option.
Timing matters when it comes to car washes. McKinley advises against washing your car at 32 degrees Fahrenheit; instead, choose a warm, dry day. A wet vehicle attracts more corrosive salt and liquid deicer, so it's best to wash your car when it's at least 40 degrees outside, ideally north of 50 degrees for complete drying.
Taking these steps ensures your car remains in good condition, protecting it from winter's harsh elements and potential long-term damage