How saltwater affects your car

We have all been to the beach for a day and come back to our cars covered in a salty film. Did you ever wonder if it does any serious damage that a wash can't get off?

You know the look and feeling. Your skin feels sticky and your hair is salty and wavy. Then you try to get the salt off the windshield with the wipers and it takes 3 or 4 tries to come clean. Just imagine what that, plus the sun, is doing to the rest of your car!

CORROSION

RUST

Well, the salt causes rust and corrosion on exposed metal on the car. Then the sun opens the paint's pores and allows the salt into the paint to damage it. Before you know it, the clear coat has worn off and the paint has started to chip and rust. There could be more underlying damage too. You have to worry about the rust affecting the electrical and mechanical systems. The under body and brake lines are also at risk as well. You might feel helpless, but there are some things you can do to prevent and fix minor issues. Learn more about rust and corrosion here, as well as how to properly wash your car at home.

RUST UNDER CAR

Here are a couple of preventative measures:  

• You could go to a car wash with a quick spray wax on it to ward off the salt from sticking for short term use. 
• You could try out a zinc coating; something that is pretty effective on boats.

Here are a few aftercare suggestions:

• If you are traveling for a day or two, get a good wash when you return home. Make sure to hose the car off fully before scrubbing to avoid scratches. Don't forget to spray underneath the car for salt and sand too.

• If you are staying for a while or moving down, you have a few options to avoid rust, corrosion and paint chips: You can use a car cover, park in a garage or wash and wax the car often.

This information is also helpful for salted roadways in the winter. However, it may be too cold for a wash most days.