Winter Car Maintenance: The Importance of Regular Washes in Wisconsin
In the heart of winter, vehicle owners in Wisconsin are being advised to prioritize regular car washes to protect their vehicles from the damaging effects of road salt. Experts emphasize that frequent washes are crucial for maintaining a vehicle's longevity and preventing corrosion. This article explores the significance of winter car care and provides valuable tips from industry professionals.
Experts Urge Frequent Car Washes to Combat Winter Damage
In the cold and often snowy months of Wisconsin, the use of road salt becomes a common practice to ensure safer driving conditions. However, this necessary measure can pose significant risks to vehicles if not properly managed. Becky Lewis, president of PDQ Car Washes, stresses the importance of washing cars even during freezing temperatures. "It’s absolutely essential to remove any salt or pretreatments that accumulate on your vehicle," she explains. The corrosive nature of road salt can lead to long-term damage, affecting various parts of the vehicle, including the undercarriage, brake lines, suspension, and body panels.
Ray Vande Velden, owner of MJ Collision Center in Bellevue, echoes this sentiment, highlighting how road salt can cause increased corrosion over time. "When left untreated, the salt can dry into a fine powder, penetrating deeper into the vehicle’s components," he notes. To mitigate these risks, both experts recommend frequent car washes as a preventive measure. Lewis assures that full-service washes are designed to handle winter conditions, ensuring that water does not freeze on vehicles and that all door seals and locks are thoroughly dried.
For those opting for quicker exterior washes, additional precautions are advised. Lewis suggests opening and closing all doors upon arrival and applying silicone spray to door seals. For older vehicles, using lock deicer is also recommended. Vande Velden adds that waxing can help water and other substances roll off the vehicle more easily, reducing the risk of prolonged exposure to harmful elements.
Ultimately, regular car maintenance, including frequent washes, is as vital as oil changes and tire rotations for keeping vehicles in top condition during harsh winter months.
From a reader's perspective, this advice serves as a timely reminder of the importance of proactive vehicle care. By following these expert recommendations, drivers can extend the life of their vehicles and avoid costly repairs down the line. It underscores the value of taking extra steps to protect one's investment, especially in regions where winter conditions can be particularly challenging.