Winter Tips to Protect Your Car

Winter brings beautiful snow and joyful holidays, making it a season worth looking forward to, but it’s also one that can take a toll on your car. The cold weather and the things that come with it, even when it’s not actively snowing or icy, can cause long-term damage to your vehicle. If you live in a region with intense winter weather, it’s essential to take steps to protect your car. Here are a few important tips to keep in mind!

Avoid Driving Behind Salt Spreaders

During the winter, trucks that spread sand, salt, and other deicers on the road are everywhere. These trucks are crucial for road safety during snowstorms or cold stretches, but they can also pose risks for your car. Whenever you can, stay clear of salt spreaders and try not to drive directly behind one, even if it’s not actively spreading salt. You never know when it will turn on, and the flying salt and debris can damage your paint and windshield.

Wash Off Salt from Your Car

Even if you try to avoid areas where deicers are being spread, it’s inevitable for your car to collect road salt and other chemicals throughout the season. While the salt buildup may not be noticeable at first, it can damage your vehicle’s paint and undercarriage. Road salt and deicing chemicals are corrosive and can weaken your car’s structure, so it’s important to clean your vehicle regularly throughout the winter. Be sure to wash your car on warmer days to avoid the risk of your doors freezing shut!

Raise Your Wiper Blades

Clearing snow and ice off your car is never fun, and things can get worse if your windshield wipers break during the process. On snowy days, wiper blades can freeze to the windshield, and trying to scrape ice off may cause them to snap. To avoid this, make it a habit to lift your wipers off the windshield whenever you park your car for the night or for an extended period. This simple step will protect the wipers and make it easier to clear your windshield when you’re ready to drive!

By following these tips and staying proactive with maintenance, you can help keep your car in great condition during the winter and through the many years to come. If your vehicle is due for a winter service, Haldeman Ford can help! Contact our service department today for more information.