ASK THE TECH--WHAT DOES SALT DO?

Q: What does salt really do to my vehicle?

A: Road salt works great on the roads, but can create some hidden damage to your vehicle over time. The biggest threat salt poses to a vehicle is rust, which is accelerated by repeated exposure to salt. Since the undercarriage of your vehicle is open, many essential parts are exposed to the salt and therefore damaged by rust. Hydraulic brake lines are a common casualty as well as brake pads and rotors. Additionally, salt will eat through your paint, causing cosmetic damage as well as structural issues. During the winter you want to be sure to continue to wash your vehicle, especially the underside every couple of weeks to prevent damage. Also continue with your regular maintenance, so that we can look over your vehicle to hopefully catch any potential problems before they become major.