How Freezing Temperatures Impact Road Safety in New Jersey

Freezing temperatures during the winter months are a major concern for drivers in New Jersey. Ice, snow, and freezing rain are just a few of the hazards that create challenges on the road. But beyond these obvious dangers, freezing temperatures also affect your vehicle’s performance, handling, and reliability in less noticeable ways. Understanding how the cold impacts both your vehicle and the road can help you drive more safely this winter. Here’s a closer look at the ways freezing temperatures influence road safety and what you can do to stay safe.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Slow down and avoid sudden braking to reduce skidding risks on black ice, especially on shaded areas and bridges.
  • Cold weather lowers tire pressure, reducing traction. Check pressure often and consider winter tires for better grip.
  • Freezing temperatures reduce brake effectiveness, so brake gently and keep a safe following distance.
  • Cold drains batteries and thickens fluids. Use winter-grade fluids and consider replacing older batteries.
  • Carry blankets, traction aids, and drive slower to handle winter hazards safely.

 

Black Ice and Slippery Roads

One of the biggest dangers of freezing temperatures is black ice, a nearly invisible layer of ice that forms when moisture freezes quickly on the surface of the road. Black ice is particularly dangerous because it’s difficult to see, especially at night or in low-light conditions. It often forms on bridges, overpasses, and in shaded areas where the pavement cools faster. When you encounter black ice, it’s easy to lose control, as even a slight turn of the wheel or tap of the brakes can send your vehicle into a skid.

 

The best way to avoid black ice is to slow down. You should also avoid sudden braking and steering. Leave extra space between you and other vehicles to allow for greater reaction time.

 

Impact on Tires and Traction

Cold weather can significantly reduce tire pressure, which impacts your vehicle’s traction and handling. When temperatures drop, the air inside your tires contracts, leading to under-inflated tires. Low tire pressure means less contact with the road, which reduces grip and increases the risk of skidding on icy or wet surfaces. Additionally, freezing temperatures make the road surface harder, which can further reduce the friction between your tires and the road.

 

Make sure you are checking your tire pressure during the winter months. Keep the pressure within the recommended range. If you notice that your tread isn’t the best, consider getting new tires to help with traction.

 

Reduced Effectiveness of Brakes

Test your brakes gently when you start driving to check for any delay in response, and avoid hard or sudden braking on icy roads. Keeping a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you will give you more time to stop if needed.

 

In freezing temperatures, your vehicle’s brakes can take longer to respond due to cold fluids and materials. Brake pads can harden in the cold, making them less effective at gripping the brake rotors, which slows down your ability to stop quickly. Furthermore, freezing rain can leave a thin layer of ice on your brake components, potentially reducing their responsiveness.

 

Car Battery Drain

Cold weather can quickly drain a car battery, as it has to work harder to provide the same amount of power. This is particularly risky in winter when a dead battery could leave you stranded in freezing temperatures. Batteries over three years old are especially vulnerable to cold-weather failure. When your car battery struggles, it can also affect the performance of other essential systems, like heating and headlights, which are crucial for winter safety.

 

As mentioned, if your battery is over three years old, you may want to consider getting a new one. Keep jumper cables in your car just in case, and be cautious about leaving your vehicle parked in extremely cold conditions for extended periods.

 

Engine and Fluid Freezing

Use winter-grade fluids for your engine and windshield wipers, and check fluid levels regularly. Wiper fluid rated for below-freezing temperatures will prevent freezing, while winter motor oil can help your engine perform better in the cold.

 

Freezing temperatures can also impact essential engine fluids, including motor oil, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid. Cold weather can cause these fluids to thicken or even freeze, affecting your engine’s ability to function properly. For example, if the coolant freezes, it can lead to engine overheating even in the winter. Frozen windshield wiper fluid can leave your windshield dirty and reduce visibility, while thicker oil strains your engine and makes it harder to start.

 

Longer Stopping Distances

Ice, snow, and even wet roads in freezing temperatures increase stopping distances, as your tires struggle to gain traction. This is particularly dangerous in situations where a sudden stop is necessary, such as when another vehicle loses control or a hazard appears on the road. Because of the slick roads and potential inclement weather, you should always drive at a safe, reduced speed. Allow extra space between you and others. If you need to stop, apply the brakes gently to prevent skidding, and be prepared to pump the brakes if your vehicle doesn’t have anti-lock brakes.

 

The Importance of Winter Preparedness

Freezing temperatures bring unpredictable conditions that can impact your vehicle’s handling, performance, and safety. While you may not be able to avoid every winter hazard, being prepared can make a big difference. Keep essential items like blankets, a flashlight, and traction aids (such as sand or cat litter) in your car in case of an emergency. These items can help you stay warm if you get stranded and give you the means to regain traction if you’re stuck on ice.

 

Looking for a Collision Repair Center in South Jersey?

When the temperature outside gets colder, you need to proceed with caution and preparedness. From black ice to reduced traction and cold-related vehicle issues, it’s essential to adjust your driving habits and keep your vehicle well-maintained. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’re here to help if the unexpected happens. If you experience a winter-related accident, our team is ready to provide quality collision repair to get you back on the road safely. Contact one of our South Jersey locations to schedule an appointment today, and stay safe out there this winter!

Why Winter Potholes in Collingswood, NJ Are So Dangerous and How They Can Damage Your Car

Driving on the crowded roadways of Collingswood, NJ can be challenging, particularly in the winter. One of the biggest threats comes not from snow or ice but from potholes that form as temperatures fluctuate. Winter potholes are notorious for damaging vehicles, leading to costly repairs if not promptly addressed. This article explores why potholes are especially hazardous during winter and the types of damage they can cause to your car. Understanding the risks and knowing what to do after encountering a pothole can help you protect your vehicle this season.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Winter potholes form due to freezing and thawing cycles, which weaken road surfaces as moisture expands and cracks the pavement.
  • Snow and ice conceal potholes, and slippery roads make it harder to avoid them. Additionally, road wear from salt and snow plows worsens the damage, leading to more severe potholes.
  • Potholes can cause tire and wheel damage, misalignment, suspension and exhaust issues, and underbody and frame dents that may rust if exposed to winter road salt.
  • Inspect your car for visible damage, check alignment, listen for unusual sounds, and monitor tire pressure to catch potential leaks early.

 

Why Do Winter Potholes Form?

Potholes form due to a combination of moisture, freezing temperatures, and traffic. When water seeps into the cracks in the road, it expands as it freezes, causing the pavement to weaken. As vehicles pass over these weakened spots, the pavement starts to break apart, forming a pothole. Winter weather in New Jersey worsens this process due to frequent freezing and thawing cycles, making potholes more prevalent and hazardous.

 

Why are Winter Potholes More Dangerous?

Winter potholes pose a greater risk than those you can spot on the streets during the summer months. Here are some reasons why:

 

  • Limited Visibility: Snow and ice often conceal potholes, making them harder to see and avoid. This lack of visibility can catch drivers off guard, increasing the likelihood of an impact.
  • Road Slipperiness: Snow and ice make roads slippery, so even if a driver sees a pothole, it may be challenging to swerve or slow down safely without losing control.
  • Increased Road Wear: Roads in Collingswood experience heavy wear from salt and snow plows in winter, which exacerbates existing cracks and weak spots, leading to deeper and wider potholes.

 

Types of Car Damage Caused by Winter Potholes

Some potholes are shallow and won’t cause a lot of damage upon impact, but there are others that are truly deep and dangerous. Colliding with a deep pothole can cause several types of damage, including:

 

Tire and Wheel Damage

Potholes can cause immediate damage to your tires and wheels. Hitting one may cause your tire to lose air pressure or even create sidewall bulges, leading to blowouts if not addressed. Additionally, the impact can puncture or slice through the rubber, requiring a replacement. For alloy wheels, which are especially susceptible to cracking or bending upon impact, hitting a pothole could mean costly repairs or full replacement. Bent wheels, in particular, may affect handling, reducing safety and comfort.

 

Suspension System Issues

Your suspension system is designed to absorb shock, but winter potholes can push its limits. A direct hit from a pothole can damage or misalign critical suspension components like shocks, struts, and control arms. Misaligned suspension parts can impact vehicle stability, creating a bumpy, uncomfortable ride and affecting your car’s ability to absorb shocks. Additionally, if the damage is left unchecked, it can lead to increased wear on other suspension parts, compounding repair costs down the line.

 

Steering Alignment Problems

Frequent or significant pothole encounters can lead to steering misalignment. This misalignment causes your wheels to be slightly off-center, leading the vehicle to pull to one side. Beyond making your vehicle harder to handle, a misaligned steering system causes uneven tire wear, which decreases tire life, reduces fuel efficiency, and diminishes safety. Misalignment can make your car feel unstable and, in winter conditions, this can be particularly dangerous.

 

Exhaust System Damage

Deep potholes can cause your vehicle to scrape or bottom out, particularly impacting the exhaust system, which runs beneath the car. If the exhaust pipe or muffler is struck, it can be punctured or damaged, leading to leaks, increased emissions, and reduced efficiency. Damage to hangers or other components may cause rattling sounds, signaling that parts are loose. Over time, exhaust damage can lead to costly repairs and even safety hazards if exhaust fumes are allowed to enter the cabin.

 

Body and Frame Damage

The underbody of your car is especially vulnerable to pothole-related damage. Large potholes can dent, crack, or scrape parts of your car’s undercarriage, including the bumper, side skirts, and fenders. These areas are susceptible to rust if they’re exposed to salt and moisture on winter roads, which can weaken the frame and make repairs more extensive. For vehicles that frequently encounter potholes, the cumulative impact on the frame can affect the structural integrity of the car, potentially making it unsafe in the long run.

 

What to Do if You Hit a Winter Pothole

Although you can’t avoid every pothole on the road, the best thing to do is to try to go around the ones you can. If you do hit one, here are some steps you can take to minimize damage and potentially ward off costly repairs:

 

  • Check for Visible Damage: Once you’re safely parked, inspect your tires, wheels, and underbody for visible damage. Look for tire bulges, cracks, or low pressure, as these are signs of immediate damage.
  • Pay Attention to Alignment Issues: If your vehicle starts pulling to one side or your steering feels off-center, it’s likely that your alignment was affected. Getting an alignment check promptly can prevent further issues.
  • Listen for Unusual Sounds: Strange noises coming from the underbody, such as scraping or rattling, might indicate damage to the exhaust system or suspension components. These noises are often signs that a component needs immediate attention.
  • Monitor the Tire Pressure: Pothole impacts can cause slow leaks, so be sure to monitor your tire pressure over the next few days. Keep an eye on your tire pressure indicator if your car has one, or manually check the pressure.

 

Looking for a Collision Repair Center in Collingswood, NJ?

Winter potholes are a serious hazard that can cause significant damage to your vehicle if left unaddressed. If you have damages from a pothole, be sure to get them repaired before the damage grows even more severe. In the event you get into a collision—whether due to the pothole or not—Elmer’s Auto Body can help you get your vehicle back on the road. Call one of our three South Jersey locations today.

What to Do if You Get in a Holiday Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide for NJ Drivers

The holiday season is a time for joy, family gatherings, and travel, but it’s also a time when roads are slick, congested, and challenging. With more people traveling, often under winter conditions, the chances of a car accident can increase. Some collisions are unavoidable, particularly when the road conditions aren’t fair. If you’re in an accident, here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your safety, handle the situation calmly, and manage the necessary procedures to get back on the road as smoothly as possible.

 

1. Ensure Safety First

Your main priority after an accident is the safety of everyone involved, including passengers and others on the road. Assess for injuries. If anyone is injured within your vehicle, don’t wait to call 911. If the accident is minor, and it’s safe to do so, move vehicles out of traffic. Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers. Avoid standing near traffic and stay in your car until it’s safe to exit.

 

2. Call the Police

In New Jersey, you have to call the police to the scene if anyone has been injured or if the damage looks greater than $500. If you have a minor fender bender, there is no need to call unless you feel it is necessary. Furthermore, a police report can be valuable when filing an insurance claim. Wait for the officers to arrive, and cooperate with them to create an accurate report.

 

After notifying the police, exchange contact, license, and insurance details with the other driver(s) involved. Record each vehicle’s make, model, and license plate number.

 

3. Gather Essential Information and Evidence

Again, you want a police report if the damages are extensive, as well as the contact information of those involved. It also helps to take photos. Capture the accident scene from multiple angles, showing vehicle positions, damage, and any visible injuries. These photos will serve as vital evidence. If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information and a brief account of what they saw. Witness statements can be very helpful if there’s a dispute over who was at fault.

 

4. Notify Your Insurance Company

After you get home from the accident, promptly notify your insurance provider. You will be asked to provide information about the accident. Give a clear, factual account of the accident without assigning blame. Include details such as the time, location, weather conditions, and the police report number, if available.

 

Your insurance representative can explain what your policy covers and help you start a claim. They’ll likely ask for a description of the damages, as well as any photos or evidence you’ve gathered.

 

5. Schedule a Vehicle Inspection

You will need to get an inspection to determine whether your vehicle can be repaired and how much the insurance provider will give you. Keep in mind that, even if the damage looks minor, internal issues can pose safety risks. A body shop like Elmer’s Auto Body can perform a full inspection to identify all areas in need of repair. If the car is undrivable, have it towed to a trusted collision repair center to prevent further damage.

 

6. Choose a Reputable South Jersey Collision Repair Center

Keep in mind that you don’t have to use the collision repair center recommended by your insurance company. Shop around and choose one that is known for quality work, such as Elmer’s Auto Body in South Jersey. With experienced technicians and state-of-the-art equipment, Elmer’s Auto Body can restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition. We work directly with insurance companies, ensuring a smooth repair process from start to finish. Choosing a repair shop like Elmer’s ensures that your repairs meet both manufacturer and insurance standards, which is essential for long-term safety and resale value.

 

7. Plan for Transportation During Repairs

Depending on the extent of the damage, repairs can take days or weeks. Arranging for alternative transportation can ease the inconvenience of being without a car. Check if your insurance includes rental car coverage, which can help with the cost of a rental while your vehicle is in the shop.

 

8. Keep Track of the Repair Process

Staying in touch with the repair center ensures you’re informed about the progress and can plan accordingly for when your car is ready. Ask for regular updates on the repair status so you’re aware of any potential delays. Before accepting your car, inspect the repairs to make sure everything is as expected. A reputable shop will address any concerns before you leave.

 

Looking for a Collision Repair Center in South Jersey?

The holiday season can be stressful enough without the added frustration of a car accident. If you find yourself in a collision this holiday season, follow these steps to ensure everyone’s safety, manage the incident effectively, and arrange for quality repairs.

 

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’re here to help you get back on the road quickly and safely. Our experienced team in South Jersey is dedicated to delivering top-quality repairs and excellent customer service. Contact us today at one of our three South Jersey locations to learn more about our collision repair services or to schedule an appointment.

Does Your Car’s Heater Affect Fuel Efficiency? What Gloucester County, NJ Drivers Need to Know

Temperatures are dropping, especially during the evening commute home. As a Gloucester County driver, you may find yourself relying heavily on the car heater to stay warm. But as much as you want to use the heater, you may also be concerned that your heater is affecting fuel efficiency. Today, we’re going to bust this myth that the heater alone impacts your gas consumption by explaining how the heater system works. Let’s get started.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • The heater in most gas-powered cars uses recycled engine heat and doesn’t require additional fuel, unlike the air conditioner which uses a separate compressor.
  • Modern engines only need about 15–30 seconds to warm up, so idling for extended periods isn’t necessary and wastes fuel.
  • Fuel efficiency can be indirectly impacted in winter due to idling, use of heated seats, and general engine inefficiency in cold weather.
  • Minimize fuel use by avoiding prolonged idling, reducing reliance on heated accessories, maintaining tire pressure, and planning trips to reduce cold starts.

 

How Does You Car’s Heater Work?

To understand if your car heater affects fuel efficiency, it helps to know how the system works. Unlike air conditioning, which relies on a separate compressor powered by the engine, the heating system takes advantage of your car’s cooling system. You know already that the engine uses combustion, and that generates heat. Obviously, this is a different story with electric vehicles, which have a separate system.

 

As the engine runs, coolant moves to absorb the heat. That heated coolant is then circulated around a small radiator known as the “heater core”. Fans then blow the air through the heater core into the cabin where you sit.

So, technically, your heater runs on recycled engine heat, and that requires no additional gas consumption.

 

Let’s also tackle some myths here while we’re at it. Some misconceptions have driven the idea that using the heater will affect fuel economy, which is why it’s important to clairfy. First, there’s the myth that the vehicle needs to warm up about 10-15 minutes before driving in the winter. This isn’t true. Maybe in the past it was, due to the conventional oil used in far less advanced engines. However, modern engines don’t need extensive warm-up time. 15-30 seconds is enough to circulate the oil through the engine, and within a couple of minutes, your car will be ready for moderate driving.

 

Next, defrosters and heater do not work best on full blast right away. Again, the heater system pulls excess heat from the engine bay. This means that your defrosters won’t be effective until the engine itself heats up. Start with a low heat then gradually increase the temperature to use the heating system more efficiently.

 

Does the Heater Affect Fuel Efficiency?

As you now know, using your heater by itself doesn’t increase fuel consumption. However, there are indirect ways your fuel efficiency may be impacted while the heater is turned on. These factors include:

 

Idling to Warm Up Your Car

In winter, many drivers idle their cars to warm up the engine and interior before driving. While this is convenient, idling burns fuel without moving the vehicle, which lowers fuel efficiency. Instead, consider letting the car warm up for just a minute or two before driving at a moderate speed to warm the engine more efficiently.

 

Heated Seats and Accessories

Many modern vehicles have heated seats, steering wheels, and other heating features that run on electricity. Although the energy demands are minor, they do put some strain on the car’s alternator, which can result in a slight increase in fuel consumption to maintain power.

 

Driving in Cold Weather

Colder temperatures generally reduce fuel efficiency because engines run less efficiently in low temperatures. Cold weather causes engine oil to thicken, making it harder for the engine to move. Tire pressure can also drop in the cold, creating more road friction and reducing fuel efficiency. So while the heater isn’t directly consuming fuel, other winter-related issues can contribute to increased fuel consumption.

 

Tips for Improving Fuel Efficiency in Winter

Winter driving through Gloucester County, NJ and the back roads can be taxing on your vehicle. Having the heater going isn’t going to burn through gas, but there are some things you can do to improve fuel efficiency so you get more for your gas money. Here are several strategies you can use to maximize fuel efficiency:

 

1. Avoid Extended Idling

Instead of warming up your car for long periods, start driving gently after a minute or two. This helps warm up the engine and cabin faster while minimizing fuel waste.

 

2. Use Heated Features Sparingly

While heated seats and steering wheels provide comfort, use them only as needed to save on energy. Turn them off once you’re warm enough to reduce the alternator’s load and minimize fuel usage.

 

3. Keep Up with Engine Maintenance

Cold weather can put extra strain on your engine, so make sure it’s in optimal condition by keeping up with routine maintenance. Replacing the oil, checking the battery, and inspecting the fuel system can all help improve fuel efficiency in winter.

 

4. Monitor Tire Pressure

Cold temperatures cause tire pressure to drop, increasing friction and lowering fuel economy. Check tire pressure regularly in winter, and make sure they’re inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended level.

 

5. Plan Your Trips

Consolidating errands or trips helps reduce the amount of cold starts, which are less fuel-efficient than a warmed-up engine. By driving less often and running errands all at once, you reduce fuel consumption overall.

 

6. Keep Windows and Mirrors Clear

Driving with clear windows and mirrors helps you avoid excessive use of defrosters, which can also consume energy. De-icing sprays and a good ice scraper are handy tools to quickly clear windows before you start driving.

 

Need a Collision Repair Shop in Gloucester County, NJ This Winter?

Using your car’s heater in winter doesn’t have a direct impact on fuel consumption, but winter driving habits like extended idling, reliance on heated accessories, and cold weather conditions do. By using these tips to drive more efficiently, you can improve fuel economy and keep your vehicle running smoothly all winter long.

 

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we may not work on everyday maintenance and repairs, but we do know how to get your car back on the road after a collision in Gloucester County, NJ. Our skilled team can restore your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition, meaning your heating system will also be as good as it ever was.

 

Stay warm, drive smart, and let Elmer’s Auto Body handle any winter-related repairs you may need. Contact one of our three South Jersey locations for professional collision repair services today.

How Winter Weather Impacts Vehicle Alignment and Safety in New Jersey

The temperature will hopefully be dropping soon, and when that happens, so too does winter weather. Winter weather can negatively affect your vehicle’s alignment, which in turn impacts your ability to drive safely. From icy roads to deep potholes, winter introduces risks that drivers may not realize impact their vehicle’s stability, handling, and even tire wear. Today, we’re going to discuss how winter weather affects alignment, why it matters for safety, and when to get a winter alignment check.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Winter conditions in New Jersey, including icy roads and potholes, can throw off your vehicle’s alignment, impacting handling and safety.
  • Potholes, icy roads, and snow or ice build-up under the vehicle all contribute to misalignment, which affects stability and increases wear on your tires.
  • Misalignment leads to reduced control, increased stopping distance, and uneven tire wear, all of which can be particularly dangerous on slippery winter roads.
  • Warning signs include your vehicle pulling to one side, a vibrating or unsteady steering wheel, uneven tire wear, squealing tires, or the steering wheel not returning to center.
  • Consider getting an alignment check after hitting a pothole, before heavy snowfall, when you notice misalignment signs, or as part of routine winter maintenance.

 

How Winter Weather Affects Wheel Alignment

Cold weather brings with it many things that you can look forward to, until you consider the roadways. Here are some things caused by winter weather than contributes to wheel misalignment:

 

Potholes and Cracks in the Road

New Jersey roads are notorious for their potholes, particularly the ones that get wider and deeper during the winter months. When snow and ice melt, they seep into cracks in the asphalt, which then refreeze and expand. This cycle causes potholes, which are hazardous for alignment. Hitting even a small pothole can jar your vehicle’s suspension system, leading to alignment issues.

 

Icy, Slippery Conditions

Freezing rain, snow, and ice make for poor driving conditions. Pair that with oil and other substances on the road, and you may find yourself in a sliding vehicle. When a vehicle slides or skids, it puts extra pressure on the suspension system and tires, which may lead to misalignment. This is especially true if you’re driving on untreated or poorly maintained roads in snowy weather.

 

Snow and Ice Build-Up

Snow, ice, and road salt can build up on the underside of your vehicle, adding uneven weight and pressure on your suspension. Over time, this can pull your alignment out of balance, even if the effect isn’t immediately noticeable. Additionally, heavy snow buildup on one side of the vehicle can also impact alignment and wear down your tires unevenly.

 

How Misalignment Affects Vehicle Safety

Driving with misaligned wheels can make your car’s performance poor. When your car isn’t functioning properly, there is a greater safety risk.  Here are some of the ways poor wheel alignment will impact your driving:

 

Reduced Control and Stability

Proper alignment ensures that your tires are straight and respond predictably to your steering. When misaligned, your vehicle may pull to one side, forcing you to continuously correct the steering. This can be dangerous, especially in winter conditions where sudden steering adjustments may lead to skids or loss of control.

 

Increased Stopping Distance

Misalignment affects the way your tires make contact with the road, which can increase your stopping distance. In winter, stopping quickly is crucial, particularly on icy or snow-covered roads. When alignment is off, it takes longer for your vehicle to come to a complete stop, increasing the risk of collisions.

 

Uneven Tire Wear

Misalignment causes uneven tire wear, reducing the life of your tires and making them less effective on slippery roads. Bald or unevenly worn tires struggle to grip the road, making them particularly dangerous in winter weather when traction is already reduced.

 

Signs Your Vehicle’s Alignment Needs Attention

It’s easy to overlook signs of misalignment, but it’s essential to check for them regularly, especially in winter. Here are some indicators that you may need an alignment check:

 

  • Your vehicle pulls to one side while driving
  • The steering wheel vibrates or feels unsteady
  • Uneven tire wear is visible
  • You notice squealing tires, even on dry pavement
  • The steering wheel does not return to center easily after turning

 

When to Get an Alignment Check

Winter is the ideal time for an alignment check, as your vehicle is more vulnerable to alignment issues. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we offer comprehensive alignment inspections to ensure your car is prepared for winter roads. Here’s when you should consider visiting us for an alignment service:

 

  • After Hitting a Pothole: Any time you hit a large pothole, it’s wise to have your alignment checked.
  • Before Heavy Snowfall: If you anticipate driving in heavy snow, an alignment check can enhance handling and safety.
  • After Noticing Alignment Issues: If you experience any of the warning signs listed above, bring your vehicle in for an inspection.
  • Routine Winter Maintenance: Including an alignment check in your winter maintenance routine is a good way to prevent safety issues before they arise.

 

Contact a Collision Repair Center in South Jersey Today

Winter alignment checks can be essential for driving safely in New Jersey’s winter weather. By addressing alignment issues early, you reduce the risk of unexpected repairs and make sure your vehicle handles optimally on icy roads. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’re here to help you stay safe through every season. Although we mainly focus on collision repair center, we do aim to educate. If you ever end up in collision, give one of our three South Jersey locations a call today.

Salt, Sand, and Snow: How Winter Road Conditions Cause Rust and What You Can Do to Prevent It

In New Jersey, there is always a chance of snow and ice. With all the traffic, road conditions can go from perfect to hazardous, even when there isn’t a lot of snow on the ground. That is why so many municipalities in South Jersey spread salt and sand for traction. While this keeps drivers safer, it introduces another problem: rust. Salt, combined with moisture from snow and rain, accelerates corrosion on vehicles, potentially leading to costly repairs if left unchecked. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we understand how winter road conditions can damage your vehicle over time. Here’s an in-depth look at how rust forms during winter and what you can do to prevent it.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Winter road salt mixes with moisture and oxygen, causing rust, especially on the undercarriage and wheel wells.
  • Washing your car, particularly underneath, every two weeks prevents salt buildup and corrosion.
  • Wax or rust-preventive sprays add a protective barrier against salt and moisture, reducing rust risk.
  • Chips and scratches expose metal, leading to rust. Repair them to prevent corrosion.
  • Minor rust can be sanded and painted; severe rust may need professional repair to ensure safety.

 

Understanding How Winter Conditions Cause Rust

Road salt, usually made from sodium chloride, is highly effective at lowering the freezing point of water and melting ice, making roads safer. However, when salt mixes with water and oxygen on your car’s metal surfaces, it accelerates rust formation. Rust, or oxidation, occurs when iron reacts with oxygen and moisture. Salt speeds up this process, creating ideal conditions for rust to spread quickly.

 

While newer vehicles often come with corrosion-resistant coatings, salt can still penetrate vulnerable areas like the undercarriage, wheel wells, and exhaust system. Winter sand can also contribute to paint chipping and surface abrasions, exposing metal and creating starting points for rust. The combination of salt, moisture, and sand particles makes winter a challenging season for keeping your vehicle rust-free.

 

Steps to Prevent Rust During Winter

You can fight corrosion before, during, and after winter. The important things, however, happen during the winter months, when the most damage can occur. Here are some tips to help you keep rust off your vehicle:

 

Wash Your Vehicle Regularly

One of the best ways to prevent rust is to wash your car frequently, especially the undercarriage where salt tends to accumulate. Aim to wash your vehicle every two weeks during the winter, or more often if you’re frequently driving on salted roads. Remember to wash your car after a snowfall, particularly after temperatures warm up, as this is when salt becomes most active and corrosive.

 

Apply a Protective Wax or Sealant

Applying a wax or sealant before winter begins can add an extra layer of protection to your car’s paint, reducing the direct exposure of metal to salt and moisture. Many types of car wax and sealants are designed to last through harsh winter conditions, providing a buffer between your vehicle’s paint and corrosive elements.

 

Use Rust-Preventive Sprays

Rust-preventive sprays, often applied to the undercarriage, are specifically formulated to repel moisture and prevent salt from causing rust. These sprays are available at auto shops and are particularly useful for cars frequently exposed to winter road salt. A rust-proofing spray can be applied by a professional or as a DIY project if you have the right tools. It’s ideal to apply the spray before winter and touch it up as needed throughout the season.

 

Repair Paint Chips and Scratches

Small chips and scratches in your paint may seem minor, but they expose your car’s metal to salt and moisture, allowing rust to form easily. Regularly inspect your vehicle for chips and scratches, especially around the wheel wells and door edges where road debris often hits. You can use touch-up paint to seal these spots and prevent rust from starting. If you find deeper scratches, consider having them professionally repaired before winter.

 

Park Indoors When Possible

Parking indoors reduces your car’s exposure to salt and moisture, especially during harsh winter conditions. Garages and covered areas keep snow and ice from accumulating on your vehicle, which can prevent repeated cycles of freezing and thawing that contribute to rust formation. If parking inside isn’t an option, using a car cover can provide some additional protection.

 

How Can Rust Be Repaired?

Rust repair varies by the severity of the damage, but for small surface rust, sanding, grinding, and applying a rust converter can stop corrosion and restore the appearance. Once the rust is removed, priming, painting, and sealing the area help protect it from future rust. For deeper rust that penetrates the metal, like rust holes on body panels, the corroded area often needs to be cut out and replaced with a patch panel. This ensures structural integrity and is typically finished with grinding, painting, and sealing to blend with the rest of the vehicle.

 

For rust that affects structural components, such as the frame, professional repair is crucial to ensure the vehicle’s safety. Severe rust damage on these areas might involve welding in new metal or using braces to reinforce weak spots. Following repairs, applying a rust inhibitor or undercoating to the undercarriage is a valuable step to protect against moisture and salt, particularly in winter-prone areas. Regular rust-proofing is a good preventive measure to maintain your vehicle’s condition over time.

 

Need a Collision Repair Center in South Jersey?

Winter driving is challenging, but you can reduce the risk of rust damage to your vehicle by staying proactive with these protective steps. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we understand the importance of maintaining your car in all seasons. If your vehicle has been affected by rust or needs collision repairs after a winter accident, our experienced team is ready to help. Contact us to schedule an appointment, and drive with confidence knowing your car is prepared for winter’s challenges.