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Don’t Let Rust Destroy Your Car This Winter

A stock photo of a rusty pickup truck.

How Do You Prevent Your Car From Getting Rust Damage?

Winter is so hard on vehicles. Freezing temperatures can cause your tires to lose pressure and your battery to struggle. However, the biggest winter threat to your car, truck or SUV is harder to see before it’s too late. Rust occurs when salt and moisture corrode bare metal. A certain amount of rust accumulation is normal, but allowing it to progress to the point where structural damage occurs is a problem. So, how do you prevent your car from rust damage? Our team of Davis Chevrolet automotive experts put together a few of their best tips. Let’s take a closer look at what they came up with.

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Wash Your Car Regularly

Snow and salt buildup on your car’s surface and undercarriage can accelerate rusting. Frequent washes, especially after snowstorms or driving on salted roads, will help prevent long-term damage. Use a touchless car wash or hand-wash your car, focusing on areas where salt and grime accumulate.

Avoid Puddles and Slushy Road

Deep puddles and slushy roads are filled with salt and dirt that can coat your undercarriage. Avoid driving through large puddles when possible, and be mindful of road conditions after a snowfall. Additionally, puddles often collect in potholes. Driving over potholes is one of the most common causes of damage that comes into our service department each winter.

Keep Your Car Dry

Moisture accelerates rust, so preventing excess water from accumulating in and around your car is key. To help keep your car dry, our team of service professionals suggest:

  • Park in a garage or covered space
  • Use a waterproof car cover
  • Clear excessive or accumulated snow off the vehicle
  • Use rubber floor mats to prevent moisture from soaking the upholstery

If you have concerns about how your vehicle is handling winter, make an appointment with the Davis Chevrolet Service Department today.