Winter is coming- and in some regions, it already has. Winter is often accompanied by several driving hazards such as icy roads and blackouts. We all know that any icy track does not bode well for vehicle drivers; ice on roads causes cars to lose their traction, which might result in an accident. Road salt provides a simple solution for this problem. Salt and water solution, commonly known as brine is poured on icy roads melting the thick layer of ice, which makes the roads safer to travel. But there is a downside to this. During traveling, salt can corrode your vehicles; especially the bottom half.
How does salt melt the road ice?
Salt can lower the freezing point of water. Normally, water freezes into ice at 0°C / 32°F – but when salt is added, it lowers the freezing point of water below this threshold and melts the thick layer of ice. Sometimes, the temperature of the surroundings is too low for any salt solution to work, forcing the road workers to spread sand and brine over the road for better traction.
How road salt damages your car
When road salt comes in contact with water and the metallic part of your car, it forms iron oxide. Iron oxide is the principal cause of rust in metallic items, and soon enough it causes the car to lose its metallic sheen. The lower part of a car is more vulnerable to this rust attack, since it is directly in contact with water and salt.
Rust does not always show. If you are not observant, it might take weeks to notice any signs – and by then, it is usually a little too late. Therefore, it is important to regularly wash your car and see if any signs of rust show, especially in the bottom half of your car. It is always a good idea to thoroughly wash your car every two weeks or so, especially if you regularly travel on icy roads laden with salt.
How a car inspection will help you
A foolproof way of determining whether your car is at any risk of rusting or not is by taking it for a car inspection. Car inspection in Seattle can be found easily via the internet. A thorough car inspection by certified professionals can save you many problems that you might have overlooked. They will also see any signs of rust, erosion, or faulty brakes, and inform you beforehand. If you are in Bellevue, Burien, or Lynnwood, car inspection can prove useful to you; especially during the winter seasons.
How to protect your car from rust
There are many ways to protect your car from rust. We have enlisted a few below:
- Regularly wash your cars during winter seasons; especially the undercarriage.
- Steer clear of puddles, ditches, or any other assortment of saltwater.
- Wax your car before every winter.
- Last but not least – Look for signs of rust; if you see any, get your car to a local car inspection without delay; Car inspections in Seattle and its surroundings are reliable and trustworthy.
Car rust can be troubling; therefore, it is important to be on your guard and take your car for regular inspections. Car inspection is one of the best options to weed out any car problems beforehand.
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