Clean Slate (Protecting Vehicle's Finish)
November 12, 2023
Winter is one of the hardest times to keep your vehicle clean. But did you know neglecting to wash your vehicle in winter could cost you a significant amount of money in the long run? Here's why.
Many areas deal with snow and ice in the winter, and the salt and sand that are used to keep the road surfaces from being slick are also super corrosive to a vehicle's metal body and undercarriage. That includes all the parts underneath that can be splashed with brine, saltwater and other road debris. Winter is also tough on vehicles where there isn’t snow, sometimes from ocean salt or winter's extra humidity and rain.
If you have any breaks in your vehicle's paint, whether it be from a little fender bender or a stone chip, that corrosive winter moisture can get through those cracks and start eating away at the metal underneath.
If you can, you should get any dents or damage fixed as soon as possible so your vehicle has a protective layer of paint between road chemicals and the metal. You may want to wait until the warmer weather, but while you're waiting, the damage is getting worse. If you're not sure of a reputable body repair shop, check with the service advisor where you have mechanical work done. They're usually knowledgeable about who is good and not so good.
You also may be tempted to skip the car wash during the winter since your vehicle is just going to get dirty fast anyway. You may want to reconsider. Many winter road treatments now use brine that gets in every nook and cranny of your vehicle. It's wise to clean that off regularly during the winter, and many washing facilities include a spray underneath that gets rid of that salt. Your vehicle repair facility may even have its own car wash, a nice bonus when you take your vehicle in for repair or regular maintenance.
TLC Custom Exhaust Brakes & Tires
1735 N Main St
Royal Oak, Michigan 48067
248-541-8300
http://www.tlcautocareroyaloak.com
Need Service?
More articles from TLC Auto Care
Something to Latch On To (Hood Latch Safety)
October 25, 2026
The other day, a driver was trying to open his vehicle's hood so he could add some windshield washer fluid. But when he pulled the hood release inside the car, nothing happened. Usually, opening any hood is a 2-step process. You pull the hood release (which is usually a handle under the dashb... More
Ready, Set, COLD! (Getting Vehicle Ready for Winter)
October 23, 2026
When the temperatures plunge, your vehicle better be ready because it faces a whole new set of challenges. Rubber stiffens, glass fogs, fluids freeze. Just thinking about it can get your heart beating faster. So here are some tips for getting ready for those inevitable colder temperatures. Ma... More
Why Timing Belt Maintenance Can Save Your Engine
October 11, 2026
One part of your vehicle you probably never think of is the timing belt. It coordinates the rotation of the crankshaft (which converts the up and down motion of the pistons into rotation motion) and the camshaft (which opens and closes your engines valves). Its vital that the timing of these mov... More