Your car is going to need some TLC after all the snow, salt and de-icer it was exposed to so far this winter. With the weather warming up over the next few days, now might be the right time to get your car washed before the cold sets back in. 

If you wash your vehicle in frigid temperatures, you risk frozen door handles and locks. AAA recommends washing your car in temperatures over 30 degrees. That's a good time to hit the car wash to avoid any complications from freezing temperatures.

It’s important to get rid of salt residue and deposits that can lead to rust. According to a 2017 AAA survey, U.S. drivers paid an estimated $15.4 billion in rust repairs caused by de-icing methods over the five years prior – that’s approximately $3 billion annually.

AAA warns drivers, especially the 70 percent (150 million) who live in areas 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.

Check out these videos on rust-related damage from our automotive experts at AAA Western and Central New York.

Always dry your car thoroughly after washing to help prevent salt from sticking as you drive away from the car wash. And it’s always a good idea to wax your car before salt season begins and during the winter as needed. That also reduces the amount of salt that sticks to the body of the vehicle.

AAA members save on car washes using their AAA Discounts!

AAA Member Discounts