Road salt and liquid brine stop ice forming on the road, and keep working on your car long after you park it. Left alone, they speed up rust on brake lines, subframes and wheel arches.
Rinse the underside first
Most salt damage happens where you cannot see it. A high-pressure underbody rinse removes the brine from seams and suspension parts before it can settle.
Foam, then hand wash
Salt crystals are abrasive. A snow foam pre-soak softens them so they rinse away instead of being rubbed into the paint.
Protect before the next storm
- Apply a spray wax or sealant to lower panels.
- Clean and dress door seals so they do not freeze.
- Wash every 7 to 10 days while roads are salted.
