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As winter fades and spring approaches, many drivers breathe a sigh of relief, cherishing the return of milder weather and clearer roads. However, the remnants of winter can linger longer than the cold itself, particularly in the form of road salt. The most popular type of salt used on roads during winter is sodium chloride (also known as "rock salt"), but when pavement temperatures go below 15°F, Minnesota adds calcium chloride or magnesium chloride. All of these chemicals make driving conditions safer during icy months, but they also pose risks to vehicles.

Understanding how road salt impacts your car is important, so you remember to wash it. Regular car washes are a great way in general to maintain your vehicle's longevity and appearance, and they are especially helpful after winter.

And don't forget to take advantage of our limited time car wash specials.

How Does Road Salt Affect a Car?

When sodium chloride or "rock salt" comes into contact with your car, it can initiate a corrosive reaction, especially on metal surfaces. This corrosion leads to rust formation, which compromises structural integrity over time. Areas such as the undercarriage, wheel wells, and brake components are particularly vulnerable. If left untreated, this damage will escalate, leading to repairs and a decrease in resale value.

As mentioned earlier, calcium chloride and magnesium chloride are often used alongside sodium chloride for de-icing roads in winter. These chlorides enhance the melting efficiency of ice and snow at lower temperatures compared to sodium chloride alone. Calcium chloride can generate heat as it dissolves, which melts ice more quickly, while magnesium chloride is less corrosive to vehicles and infrastructure. However, all three salts still contribute to corrosion and damage vehicle components, such as the undercarriage and brake systems, if not properly washed off after exposure. The combination of these chemicals results in increased wear on vehicles due to their hygroscopic nature, which attracts moisture and accelerates rust formation.

Moreover, these road salts can affect your vehicle's paint job. The abrasive nature of salt causes scratches and dullness, diminishing the car's aesthetic appeal. As winter transitions to spring, the accumulation of salt and grime becomes more pronounced. As a result, it's recommended that you address these issues before they become severe.

A visit to the car wash can mitigate these effects by removing harmful residues that cling to your vehicle.

Car Washes & Detailing Services Make for Good Maintenance Habits

Visit the car wash as part of your spring maintenance, and protect your investment.

At Bobby & Steve's Auto World, we have automatic car washes across at most of our locations across Minnesota (with unlimited wash passes available) and we offer auto detailing services at our Downtown Minneapolis location to keep your car at its best, inside and out.

As we bid farewell to winter and welcome spring, remember the impact of road salt on your vehicle and how car washes safeguard it against corrosion and maintain its appearance. At the end of the day, having a vehicle that looks good and lasts long is the goal, right? And let's be honest; your inner kid still loves going through an automatic car wash.

However you choose to do it, make sure you give your vehicle some TLC after winter, starting with a good cleaning!