As Temperatures Continue to Rise, AAA Encourages You to Wash Your Car to Avoid Rust

March may be considered a month where one week temperatures can be in the 50s and 60s and the following in the 30s, but Spring is approaching. With that, AAA says even if you see a line at the car wash, it is a good time to wash your car off from salt. The organization says salt, snow and ice can cause havoc for your car and a buildup of rust can lead to rusting or corrosion.

Rusting and/or corrosion can especially occur if there are scratches or dents where paint on your vehicle has come off. A regular visit to the car wash can help prevent this.

AAA says in spring time, millions of Americans face costly vehicle repairs for rust damage caused by either salt or chemicals used to de-ice roadways. 

“Salt and other solutions are necessary to keep roadways safe in the winter, but drivers must make vehicle maintenance a priority to avoid damage and costly repairs. AAA warns drivers in this area, affected by snow and ice, to take action to prevent dangerous rust-related vehicle damage to brake lines, fuel tanks, exhaust systems and other critical vehicle components.”

AAA said in a release.

Motorists should take preventative measures to reduce the possibility of damage from rust though, some rust damage is unavoidable, AAA noted. Tips for washing your vehicle and efficiently reducing salt build up are to pay attention to washing the underside of your vehicle. Washing the underside will loosen, dissolve and neutralize road salts.

You should also use a high-quality car wash solution if you decide to wash your car yourself; do not use home dish detergent as it will strip wax off of your vehicle. Any bodypaint damage that exposes the vehicle’s bare metal should be repaired quickly before rusting occurs. 

“Don’t forget about the interior—make sure to wipe down and vacuum floor mats and seats regularly. Melting snow, road salt or chemicals can soak into the carpet. Help your car retain its value and prevent rust underneath the carpet by adding a set of rubber mats, which can better handle moisture.”

AAA continued.