Spring Recovery: Healing Your Car from a Winter of Road Salt and Slush
What spring maintenance does your car need after winter?
After winter, wash your undercarriage to remove road salt, inspect for rust and corrosion, check suspension components, replace winter fluids, inspect brakes, and examine the paint and trim for damage from salt exposure.
The Damage Road Salt Does
Road salt corrodes metal faster than rust alone. It attacks your undercarriage, suspension, brake lines, and frame. Winter salt exposure can reduce your car's lifespan by years. Spring is the time to assess and repair this damage before it becomes catastrophic.
Spring Car Recovery Checklist
- Undercarriage wash: Remove accumulated road salt with high-pressure washing
- Rust inspection: Look for corrosion on suspension, frame, and brake lines
- Brake system check: Salt corrodes brake components and reduces effectiveness
- Suspension inspection: Check springs, struts, and tie-rods for damage
- Fluid changes: Replace winter-grade oil and check all fluid levels
- Tire rotation: Rotate tires and check for winter damage
- Paint inspection: Look for chips and cracks where salt entered
- Battery cleaning: Remove corrosion from battery terminals
- Hose and belt inspection: Check for salt-induced cracks
- Undercoating assessment: Determine if additional protection is needed
Why Undercarriage Washing is Critical
The undercarriage bears the brunt of winter salt. Caked salt traps moisture against metal, accelerating corrosion. A thorough high-pressure wash removes this salt before it causes permanent damage. This single step can prevent thousands in rust repairs.
Brake System Damage from Salt Exposure
Road salt corrodes brake lines, caliper pistons, and rotor surfaces. Brakes may feel spongy or less responsive after winter. Have your brakes inspected and flushed if needed. Replacing brake fluid removes moisture that salt brings into the system.
Suspension Components Need Close Inspection
Salt attacks suspension springs, struts, tie-rods, and control arms. Corroded components weaken and fail without warning. A suspension inspection reveals hidden damage. Catching problems early prevents dangerous failures and expensive emergency repairs.
How often should you wash your car undercarriage in spring?
Wash your undercarriage at least once in early spring after winter ends. If you live in a heavy salt region, wash it every 2 to 3 weeks during winter to prevent salt buildup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can road salt damage my car's paint?
Yes. Salt is abrasive and corrosive. It chips paint and allows rust to form underneath. Wash your car regularly in winter and inspect the paint in spring.
Should I get my car undercoated before or after winter?
Ideally before winter. Undercoating provides a protective barrier against salt. If not done before, apply it in spring after washing and inspecting for damage.
What is the cost of rust damage repairs?
Rust repair costs vary widely. Small surface rust costs $200 to $500. Deep frame rust can exceed $3,000. Prevention through washing and undercoating is far cheaper.
Book Your Spring Recovery Service
Schedule a comprehensive spring inspection and undercarriage wash to repair winter damage.
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