How frequently should you wash your car during winter?

 Winter Car Care: Why Regular Washes Are Essential to Protect Your Vehicle

Washing your car in winter may seem counterintuitive, given the chilly temperatures and inevitable re-soiling. However, it plays a crucial role in maintaining your vehicle's longevity and preventing potential costly repairs. Skyler McKinley, the local regional director for AAA, shared insights with FOX31 about why winter car washes are essential and the risks involved if you neglect them.

The Importance of Car Washes in Winter

The common sentiment of "What's the point? It's going to get dirty again" holds some truth, but McKinley emphasizes the significance of regular car washes during winter. It's not about mere aesthetics but rather about removing the corrosive buildup of salt and deicing chemicals used on winter roads.

Deicing Chemicals and Their Corrosive Impact

Liquid deicing solutions, increasingly popular for their effectiveness, are corrosive chemicals designed to melt snow and ice. While effective on roads, they pose a threat to vehicles, accelerating corrosion when left untreated. This also applies to solid salt used for deicing. These chemicals can seep into cracks, causing damage to brake lines, exhaust systems, fuel tanks, and electrical connections.

Consequences of Neglecting Car Washes

Failure to wash off salt and deicers can lead to rust-related damage, affecting both the vehicle's appearance and its mechanical components. A study by AAA in 2017 found that 15% of U.S. drivers in winter climate regions had to undergo vehicle repairs over five years due to rust damage, with an average cost of $490 per repair.

Protecting Your Vehicle from Deicers

McKinley recommends washing your car at least once a month throughout the year, with more frequent washes in winter, especially after major snowstorms. Focus on the undercarriage and lower parts of the car, as they are most susceptible to rust damage. Look for car wash facilities offering undercarriage washing options.

Timing Matters for Winter Car Washes

While stressing the importance of regular washes, McKinley advises choosing the right time. Avoid washing your car at 32 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. Opt for warmer, dry days, preferably above 40 degrees Fahrenheit and ideally north of 50 degrees Fahrenheit for effective drying and minimized re-exposure to corrosive elements.

In conclusion, winter car care involves more than aesthetics; it's a preventive measure to safeguard your vehicle from the corrosive impact of deicing chemicals, ensuring its longevity and reducing the risk of costly repairs.