Most of us are familiar with the idea that salt is bad for our cars. After all it’s bad for everything else – our clothes our food our skin. So it stands to reason that it would be bad for our cars as well.
But how bad is it really?
Let’s start with the basics. Salt is a mineral and like all minerals it is composed of atoms. These atoms are held together by electrochemical bonds. When salt is exposed to water these bonds are broken and the atoms are released into the water.
When salt water dries the water evaporates but the salt is left behind. This is why salt water leaves behind a white residue.
So what does this have to do with cars? Well when salt water dries on a car it leaves behind a layer of salt. This salt layer is extremely corrosive and over time it will eat away at the metal on your car.
If you live in an area where it gets cold in the winter you’ve probably seen cars with rust on them. Rust is just another word for corrosion and it’s caused by salt.
Salt is also bad for your car’s paint job. When salt water dries on your car it leaves behind a white residue. This residue is very difficult to remove and it will eventually lead to your car’s paint job fading and chipping.
In short salt is bad for your car. It can cause corrosion rust and paint damage. If you live in an area where it gets cold in the winter make sure to wash your car frequently to prevent salt from damaging it.
How much salt is too much for a car?
A car can start to experience problems after driven in salt water for about 30 minutes.
What does salt do to a car?
Salt corrodes metal and speeds up the rusting process.
How can you tell if salt has damaged your car?
Check for rust on the undercarriage.
How do you remove salt from a car?
wash the car as soon as possible with fresh water and soap then dry it off.
How often should you wash your car if you live in a place with a lot of salt?
At least once a week.
What can you do to prevent salt damage?
Waxing helps create a barrier between the metal and the salt.
What other things besides salt can damage a car?
Rocks sand and dirt.
How do you remove corrosion?
Use a wire brush to remove any loose corrosion then use a corrosion protection product.
How do you protect your car from salt damage?
By washing it regularly and waxing it.
What is the best way to remove salt from a car?
Use a hose to wash the car down as soon as possible then dry it off.
How do you keep salt from damaging your car?
By washing it regularly and waxing it.
What is the best way to avoid salt damage to your car?
By washing it regularly and waxing it.
What should you do if you think your car has been damaged by salt?
Take it to a mechanic to have it checked out.
How do you know if salt has damaged your car?
Check for rust on the undercarriage.
How can you prevent salt damage to your car?
By washing it regularly and waxing it.
