It’s no secret that winter weather harms your car. But, it’s not just the cold temperatures and slick conditions that can cause damage. In certain scenarios, you’re more likely to get into an accident, scratch the vehicle’s surface or discover the engine won’t start. Consider these common occurrences.
1. You Drive in Light Snow
Many drivers are careful driving in blizzard conditions, but even light snow can result in slippery surfaces and more accidents than full-blown storms. Why? In these cases, drivers may still be traveling at regular speeds, only to be surprised by a slick or slushy surface, and end up sliding into another vehicle or guardrail. Drivers are also less likely to pick up on subtle road changes during a light snow shower, such as a small patch of ice.
In fact, according to 10-year averages from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, 17 percent of car accidents occur during snow or sleet, 13 percent on icy pavement and 14 percent on slushy surfaces.
2. Driving Through Fresh Rock Salt
Although many motorists can’t help this from happening, driving through road salt has several negative consequences, including:
- Undercarriage corrosion
- Damage to parts like the brake lines
- Rust and fading paint
- Small scratches resulting from abrasion
3. Incorrectly Cleaning Off Your Vehicle
Cleaning snow off your car is compliant with the law but, in many cases, drivers use a shovel to quickly remove the buildup. While it might not seem like a big deal because it saves time in the morning, the shovel’s hard edge meant for piercing ice and scooping up snow can create gouges and scratches.
Additionally, if ice covers your vehicle, don’t be tempted to use the scraper on areas other than the windows. To avoid scratches when you’re dealing with large chunks of ice, heat your car for a few minutes and remove them with your hands as they melt.
4. Keeping the Car Outdoors All Season
Do you have neighbors like this? They leave their car in the driveway all season long, never driving or bothering to dig it out from beneath snow. Forgetting about your vehicle and exposing it 24/7 to the cold has multiple ramifications:
- Completely draining your battery
- Thickening your fluids
- Your door locks won’t work
- Parts, particularly your brakes, get rusted
- Tires develop flat spots
- Damage to your sides from plows
Whether your car needs a coat of paint or more comprehensive repairs, DaSilva’s Auto Body is here to assist with a wide range of vehicle maintenance. To make an appointment, give our Naugatuck location a call today.
