Six Ways to Prevent Salt Build Up on Your Car

Sabah Karimi
Surviving winter is hard enough, and any salt build up on your car or SUV and the snow, ice, and salt can lead to many vehicle problems inside and out. Salt build up on the interior and engine can lead to rust and inefficient pipes and motors; too much salt build up on the exterior can lead to paint scratches, chipping, and unattractive rust. If your car or SUV is battling the winter tundra this season, you'll need a few strategies to prevent salt buildup. Here are six ways to make sure your car or SUV looks as good as new come Spring:

Prevent Salt Build Up On Your Car by Heading to the Car Wash
Aim for at least one car wash per week, no matter how much it snows or rains outside. A fresh wash can remove debris, dirt, and any salt that's accumulated over the course of the week, and will help reduce the chances of rust immediately.

Prevent Salt Build Up On Your Car with Salt-X
Salt-X is a salt removal formula that helps prevent corrosion and rust buildup with a simple rinse. You'll need to take your car to private (covered) place to spray it with this potent concentrate. It's designed for boats and sports equipment as well, and is a great way to 'prime' your car, truck, or SUV for the season.

Prevent Salt Build Up On Your Car by Spraying Underneath with a Hose
If you really can't make it to the weekly car wash, at least spray the underside of the car with a high-powered hose. This will remove salt buildup from accumulating on the wheels, axles, and exhaust pipe that can cause severe damage if it's left untreated.

Prevent Salt Build Up On Your Car by Cleaning Off the Car Immediately After a Snowstorm
Salt can easily get onto the car from other people's snowblowers after a snow storm, so dig your car out of it's snow mask whenever possible.

Prevent Salt Build Up On Your Car by Parking Off the Road
Snow plows and salt trucks are your worst enemy during the winter time since they practically dump salt as they work. Let the salt shower stay on the road, and move your car to a covered area or garage at every opportunity.

Prevent Salt Build Up On Your Car By Using a Car Cover
If you're courageous enough to battle the chill for just a few more minutes after you get out of the car, quickly wrap it up with a car cover. Car covers can help keep the car (somewhat) warm, but also protect it from the elements when you leave it unattended.

Help your automobile survive any winter damage with these simple prevention strategies so you don't have to worry about rust or maintenance problems when Spring (finally) arrives.

Published by Sabah Karimi - Featured Contributor in Travel and Lifestyle

Sabah Karimi is a Featured Contributor in Travel and Lifestyle. She writes beauty, style, shopping, health, wellness, and personal finance content for various Y! channels. She is a full-time freelance digita...   View profile

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