Road Salt Could Cause Unexpected Problems For Drivers

Road salt is being poured on roads across the country to help drivers safely get around–but if left unattended, that salt sitting on vehicles can become a problem, as some experts in St. Joseph, Missouri, are warning drivers, News-Press Now reports.

Road salt typically only becomes a problem after it’s been sitting for a while. Parts of the vehicle begin to rust, which can especially be a problem when it affects the undercarriage, which is commonly the result.

Luke Sill, owner of Auto Appearance Specialists, explained that oxidation, fading paint, and a fading clear coat are all factors that can impact a vehicle’s undercarriage, making it difficult for technicians to perform jobs such as brake changes or tire maintenance.

“You know, if you're leaving that on your car for an extended amount of time, you'll ultimately have an open wound, just like your skin,” Sill described.

East Ridge Car Wash President Larry Edwards is advising people to seek out underbody washes for their vehicles to ensure any remaining road salt is thoroughly removed from the vehicle. Edwards said it’s something that can’t simply be done at a self-service car wash; rather, the vehicle will need to drive over a source of water coming from the ground.

Some car wash chains offer special chemicals to counteract the harmful effects of road salt, but Sill cautions against the use of cheap, acidic chemicals that only serve to peel film and not offer protection.