How to Spot Winter Collision Damage Before It Gets Worse: A Guide for Sewell, NJ Drivers

Winter in Sewell, NJ, brings beautiful scenery—and challenging driving conditions. Icy roads, heavy snowfall, and reduced visibility increase the risk of minor and major collisions. While some winter damage is obvious, like a dented bumper or cracked headlight, others are subtler and can worsen if ignored. Identifying and addressing winter collision damage early can help prevent safety issues and save on costly repairs. Here’s a guide to spotting winter collision damage before it becomes a bigger problem.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Ignoring minor damage can lead to serious issues, as winter conditions like salt and moisture accelerate rust and corrosion on scratches, dents, and exposed areas.
  • Winter roads often hide hazards that can dent or scrape your undercarriage. Check for leaks or rust.
  • Winter potholes and minor collisions can cause alignment issues and uneven tire wear.
  • Damaged or dim lights reduce visibility; ensure headlights and indicators are functional.
  • Grinding brakes, clunks, and rattles can indicate damage needing prompt repair.

 

Why You Must Address Collision Damage Quickly

Winter conditions can worsen damages left unattended, compromising the performance and safety of your vehicle. If you got into a collision during the warmer months, those issues can worsen dramatically as the temperature dips. Fixing minor dents, realigning wheels, and sealing paint scratches can prevent larger repairs later on. Regular inspections, especially after driving in icy or snow-packed areas, ensure that your vehicle remains in safe, reliable condition throughout the season.

 

Inspect the Exterior of Dents and Scratches

Minor dents, scratches, and chips seem harmless, as they are often considered superficial damage. Unfortunately, even a tiny scratch can lead to extensive damage. Winter conditions have a way of making such tiny damages worse, particularly when snow and ice is mixed with road brine. Road salt and moisture seep into exposed areas, speeding up rust and corrosion.

 

When doing a visual inspection of your vehicle after a collision, look for denter bumpers and panels; scratches in the paint; and chipped or cracked paint.

 

Look Underneath for Hidden Undercarriage Damage

Winter can be rough on a car’s undercarriage. Snow and ice-packed roads hide hazards like potholes and debris, which can cause undercarriage damage. Damages from a collision can worsen, too, when you hit ice or snow-covered debris. Look under your vehicle for any scrapes or dents, leaking fluids, or rust.

 

Leaking fluids are after oil, coolant, or transmission fluid, all of which are essential to the safety of your vehicle.

 

Examine Tires and Wheels for Damage

Winter potholes can knock your tires and wheels out of alignment, causing uneven tire wear, steering issues, and even suspension damage. You can tell that your wheels are misaligned with a couple of cues. First, is your car pulling to one side of the road while in motion? That may be a symptom of sustained wheel or suspension damage, which can occur during a fender bender, for example. You may also notice some tire wear that can cause alignment issues, especially if the uneven wear is due to slamming on the brakes and leaving a trail of burned rubber behind.

 

Test Headlights, Brake Lights, and Indicators

In winter, it’s common for lights to get damaged due to icy collisions or exposure to cold, wet conditions. Check your lights regularly by looking for cracks, fogging, or moisture inside the light housing. These problems can affect visibility and lead to electrical problems. If any lights are dim or not working, it’s essential to repair or replace them, especially in winter when visibility is crucial for safe driving.

 

Listen for Unusual Noises When Driving

After a collision, regardless of the season, you want to pay attention to any unusual noises. Listen for any grinding or squeaking from the brakes, which can signal damaged brake pads, rotors, or brake lines. Clunking noises from the suspension suggest potential damage to the shocks, struts, or suspension. Any whistling or rattling points to damaged seals, doors, or windows that were affected by an impact or temperature change.

 

How Can a Collision Repair Shop in Sewell, NJ Help?

A collision repair shop like Elmer’s Auto Body can provide several essential services to address and repair winter-related damage, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road. Collision repair shops are ideal for minor dent, scratch, and chipped paint repairs caused by accidents. Furthermore, a repair shop can inspect your car’s undercarriage for dents, scrapes, or damage to the frame and suspension. They can realign or repair components as needed to maintain your car’s structural integrity. You also get peace of mind knowing that a collision repair shop in Sewell, NJ like Elmer’s Auto Body has been around for years and has state-of-the-art facilities.

 

Contact a Sewell Collision Repair Center This Winter

Winter conditions can worsen any damage left unattended, potentially compromising your vehicle’s safety. If you recently got into a minor collision, there may be damages that you are unaware of, ones that will make driving this winter even harder. Do an inspection then look for a professional collision repair service.

 

Stay safe this season—contact Elmer’s Auto Body in Sewell, NJ, for professional repairs and keep your car ready for any winter challenge.

From Minor Scrapes to Major Dents: Handling Parking Lot Collisions in Snow Conditions in South Jersey

With the holiday season upon us here in South Jersey, there comes the chance of getting into a parking lot collision. Everyone is out trying to get their shopping done, making even parking lots that rarely ever fill into obstacle courses. Crowded lots also tend to have plenty of slick surfaces and limited visibility, both of which lead to accidents. Snow-covered or icy parking lots are particularly hazardous, making it easy for cars to skid into each other or obstacles. Whether it’s a minor scrape or a larger dent, knowing how to handle parking lot collisions in snow conditions can help prevent further damage and ensure your safety.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Snow, ice, and crowded lots increase the risk of parking lot collisions. Limited traction and visibility make maneuvering in tight spaces challenging.
  • Snowy lot collisions can result in scratches, dents, bumper damage, and alignment issues—all of which impact both aesthetics and safety.
  • Stay calm, assess the scene, document damages, exchange information, and consider filing a police report for significant damage or disputes.
  • Attempting repairs on dents or scratches in winter can worsen damage. Professional repairs are recommended to ensure quality and safety.

 

Why Parking Lot Collisions Happen in Snowy Weather

Wintry conditions heighten the chance of car collisions no matter the location. In parking lots, the same rules apply as on the road or even when walking on a pathway covered in ice and snow. Winter weather reduces tire traction, making it difficult for your car to stop or maneuver around other vehicles and obstacles, including piles of snow.

 

You also deal with limited visibility. If you’ve been shopping for a while, let’s say, your car will have cooled, and all the snowfall, frost, and fogged-up windows will keep you from seeing clearly, particularly in poorly lit areas. Parking spots and lanes are often tight, and with snowbanks or icy patches, even simple maneuvers like backing out or turning can result in scrapes and bumps.

 

Lastly, shopping centers and public venues are busier during the winter months, especially around the holidays, which increases the chances of close encounters in parking lots.

 

Types of Damages Sustained in Snowy Parking Lot Collisions

Let’s take a look at some of the possible damages that may be inflicted upon your vehicle in a parking lot accident:

 

  • Scratches and Minor Paint Damage: Cars that slide or brush against other vehicles may experience light scrapes and paint damage, which, though minor, can still leave a lasting mark.
  • Bumper and Fender Damage: Low-speed collisions often result in dents or cracks in bumpers or fenders. Even at slow speeds, the impact can cause significant aesthetic damage.
  • Dents and Dings: Snow can hide curbs, barriers, or cart corrals, leading to unexpected dents. Some dents may seem small, but they can weaken the car’s structure and lead to rust if untreated.
  • Alignment Issues: Sliding or colliding with objects in a parking lot can shift your vehicle’s alignment, causing handling issues and uneven tire wear over time.

Steps to Take If You Get Into a Parking Lot Collision in South Jersey

If you get into an accident in a snowy parking lot, the most important thing to remember is not to panic. Yes, damage may have been done, but it can be repaired. What matters most is your safety. To help protect you and your car and simplify the process, here are some tips for what to do in such a situation:

 

  • Assess the Scene: If there are any oncoming or incoming cars, more your vehicle to somewhere safe. Use your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the situation, especially if the weather is poor.
  • Document the Incident: Take photos of the damages, recording every dent and scratch. Try to also get evidence of the surroundings and the weather.
  • Exchange contact information: If necessary, get the contact information of every driver involved.
  • File a Police Report: Typically, if damage is more than minor or if there is any dispute, the police should be called, and a police report should be filed. A police report also provides an official record and will support any insurance claims.
  • Avoid Doing DIY: In cold conditions, paint and body materials may respond differently than in warmer weather. Trying to fix dents or scratches yourself in winter can worsen the damage, especially if the affected area is damp or covered in road salt.

 

How Can a Collision Repair Center Help Restore Your Car

Winter-related parking lot damage may seem minor, but it can lead to bigger issues if left untreated. At Elmer’s Auto Body of South Jersey, our professional team will assess and repair any collision damage sustained throughout the year. We have an array of services to keep your vehicle looking great and functioning optimally.

 

Our services include:

 

  • Paint restoration
  • Scratch repair
  • Dent and bumper repair
  • Structural repairs
  • Alignment services

 

Contact a Collision Repair Center in South Jersey Today

Winter driving in South Jersey can be unpredictable, but handling parking lot collisions doesn’t have to be. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’re committed to high-quality repairs that restore the appearance and safety of your vehicle. Our team has the skills and equipment to tackle winter-specific damage, from dent repair to rust prevention.

 

If a parking lot mishap leaves you with dents, scrapes, or alignment issues, contact one of our South Jersey locations. Let’s get your car back on the road.

Debunking Winter Driving Myths: Facts NJ Drivers Need to Stay Safe

Whether it’s your first winter driving or your twentieth, taking to the roads when there’s ice and snow can be a harrowing experience. Plus, you have to deal with a lot of misinformation. Yes, there’s a wealth of knowledge out there about how to deal with wintry conditions, but not all of it is accurate. Many drivers follow winter driving tips that can actually increase risks instead of reducing them. To help you stay safe, the team at Elmer’s Auto Body has gotten together to debunk some of the most common winter driving myths. Let’s get started.

 

Myth 1: All Season Tires are Better Than Winter Tires

Many NJ drivers are under the assumption that “all-season” means that your tires can handle every season, regardless of the conditions. Unfortunately, all-season only means decent performance across the board, particularly in mild seasons. All-season tires don’t provide the same amount of grip and safety as winter tires.

 

Winter tires are specifically designed for temperatures below 45°F and offer superior traction on snow and ice. Their rubber compound stays flexible in the cold, providing better handling and shorter stopping distances. If you frequently drive in snowy or icy conditions, switching to winter tires can significantly enhance safety.

 

Myth 2: Four-Wheel Drive Makes You Invincible in Wintry Conditions

While four-wheel drive (4WD) can help you accelerate and maintain traction on snowy roads, it doesn’t make you immune to sliding or losing control. Many drivers with 4WD overestimate their vehicles’ capabilities and may end up taking unnecessary risks, believing that 4WD alone is enough.

 

The fact of the matter is that 4WD vehicles still slide. Regardless of the car you are driving, it’s crucial to drive slowly, avoid sharp turns, and remember that 4WD doesn’t make stopping any easier. Practicing safe braking and steering techniques is just as important.

 

Myth 3: You Don’t Need to Warm Up The Car Before Driving

Some believe that modern engines don’t need to warm up before driving in winter, but this isn’t entirely accurate. Cold weather can cause fluids to thicken and limit their ability to properly lubricate the engine and other parts. Warming up your car for a few minutes allows the engine oil and other fluids to circulate properly, reducing strain on the engine and ensuring smoother performance. While idling for 15-30 seconds is generally sufficient in modern cars, it’s helpful to wait a bit longer in freezing temperatures, especially if you plan to drive at higher speeds.

 

Myth 4: Lower Tire Pressure Improves Traction on Ice and Snow

There’s a common misconception that deflating tires will increase their grip on icy roads. However, this myth can actually lead to more problems than solutions. Lowering tire pressure reduces traction, increases tire wear, and affects your vehicle’s handling. Proper tire pressure is essential for maintaining traction and control. Always check your tire pressure regularly in winter, as cold temperatures cause pressure to drop naturally. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended tire pressure, and keep your tires properly inflated to ensure safe winter driving.

 

Myth 5: ABS and Traction Control Reduce Skidding

ABS and traction control are designed to help you maintain control by preventing wheel lock-up and managing acceleration. However, these systems are not a substitute for safe driving practices. When roads are icy, drive slowly and maintain extra distance from other vehicles. Use ABS and traction control as tools to aid your control, but don’t rely on them entirely to avoid sliding. Such technologies are not foolproof, and things can go wrong.

 

Myth 6: Salted Roads Mean Safe Driving

Road salt is widely used in New Jersey to prevent ice buildup, and while it does help reduce slipperiness, it’s not a guarantee of safe driving. Salt lowers the freezing point of water, helping to melt ice on the roads, but its effectiveness decreases significantly in very low temperatures. Additionally, salt can corrode the metal parts of your vehicle’s undercarriage, leading to rust and potential structural damage. To protect your car, wash it regularly during winter to remove salt buildup, especially in the wheel wells and underbody.

 

Myth 7: Pouring Hot Water on a Vehicle Can Defrost It

Have you ever seen those reels or TikToks where someone gets the idea to pour hot water on the door handle or windshield of their car and something terrible happens? That’s the truth. Pouring hot water on a frozen windshield is dangerous because the rapid temperature shift can stress the glass, leading to cracks. Instead, use an ice scraper, start your defroster, and allow your car to warm up. De-icing spray or rubbing alcohol can also help melt ice safely without risking windshield damage.

 

Myth 8: You Don’t Need to Carry an Emergency Kit for Short Trips

Winter breakdowns and accidents are unpredictable, and having an emergency kit in your car is essential regardless of the distance you plan to travel. Include items like a blanket, flashlight, first-aid kit, ice scraper, jumper cables, and non-perishable snacks. You’ll be grateful for these supplies if you’re ever stuck in an unexpected situation on the road.

 

Myth 9: Bridges and Overpasses Are Not as Slippery as Roads

Many drivers believe that bridges and overpasses aren’t as susceptible to ice as regular roads, but these structures actually freeze faster and can be more hazardous. Why? Because bridges and overpasses have no ground beneath them to retain heat, so they freeze more quickly than other road surfaces. Always slow down and drive cautiously when crossing bridges and overpasses in winter, as these areas are prone to black ice, even when the rest of the road appears clear.

 

Looking for a Collision Repair Shop in South Jersey?

Knowing the facts about winter driving in New Jersey can help you stay safer on the road and avoid common mistakes. By avoiding these myths and practicing sound winter driving habits, you’re better equipped to handle whatever challenges come your way this season. And if a winter collision occurs while you are driving this winter, Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. Protect yourself from winter’s hazards by driving smart, and contact Elmer’s Auto Body for professional collision repair when you need it.

The Benefits of Bringing Your Tesla to an Approved Body Shop After an Accident in Haddonfield, NJ

Although you hope it never happens, there is always a chance of getting into your Tesla and finding yourself in the middle of a collision. Hopefully, your Tesla receives only cosmetic damage. Yet, even with minimal damage, you need to get the repairs done by someone you can trust. Tesla vehicles are unique, with their all-electric systems, advanced technology, and specific repair requirements. Choosing an unapproved repair center might compromise your vehicle’s safety, performance, and warranty.

 

In Haddonfield, NJ, bringing your Tesla to an approved body shop, such as Elmer’s Auto Body in Mt. Ephraim, NJ, ensures that your vehicle receives the specialized care it needs. Here’s why choosing an approved shop makes all the difference.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Tesla-approved shops have trained technicians with expertise in Tesla’s electric systems, aluminum bodies, and safety features, ensuring precise repairs.
  • Approved centers use OEM parts designed for your Tesla, maintaining safety, performance, and warranty protection, unlike aftermarket parts.
  • Using a Tesla-approved shop preserves your vehicle’s warranty, preventing costly future repairs.
  • Certified technicians have the skills to repair Tesla’s aluminum frame, maintaining its lightweight structure and efficiency.

 

Certified Technicians with Tesla Knowledge

Tesla vehicles are filled with cutting-edge technology, electric propulsion, and made with sleek, lightweight designs. Their electric systems, aluminum bodies, and advanced safety features make them highly specialized vehicles that require more than just standard automotive repair knowledge. Tesla-specific training and certification are essential for any technician working on these vehicles.

 

At a Tesla-approved body shop, technicians undergo rigorous training directly from Tesla, learning the intricacies of every model, from the Roadster to the Model S, 3, X, and Y. This certification process ensures that technicians are equipped to handle the unique challenges that come with Tesla repairs. They know how to work with Tesla’s proprietary technology, including the Autopilot system, high-voltage batteries, and the complex array of sensors embedded in the vehicle’s body.

 

Choosing an approved shop gives you peace of mind that your Tesla is in capable hands. These certified technicians follow Tesla’s strict repair guidelines, using the latest tools and techniques designed for your specific model. With this level of expertise, they can precisely diagnose and repair issues, ensuring that your vehicle is restored to its original condition. This minimizes the risk of improper repairs that could lead to further damage, compromised safety, or even a voided warranty.

 

Access to Genuine Tesla Parts

As with any vehicle, you want genuine parts used in the repairs. esla-approved body shops have direct access to these Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, ensuring that every piece used in the repair is up to Tesla’s high standards of quality.

 

Using aftermarket or imitation parts might save money initially, but it can come with significant risks. Non-genuine parts may not fit as precisely, leading to misalignment or even compromising the structural integrity of your vehicle. This can affect the aerodynamics, energy efficiency, and performance of your Tesla, not to mention the potential safety risks if a critical component fails.

 

Tesla-approved body shops guarantee that all parts used in your repair are authentic, meeting the same quality standards as the parts originally installed in your vehicle. From the exterior body panels to the intricate internal systems, OEM parts ensure that your Tesla’s performance, safety, and appearance are maintained. Additionally, using genuine parts helps preserve your warranty and resale value, making it a smart long-term investment in your vehicle’s well-being.

 

Advanced Tools and Equipment for Accurate Repairs

Tesla vehicles feature some of the most advanced technology on the market, from autopilot systems to full self-driving capabilities. A Tesla-approved body shop has access to the specialized tools and diagnostic equipment needed to repair and recalibrate these systems. This includes repairing the car’s battery pack, recalibrating sensors, and ensuring that the advanced driver-assist features are functioning properly after a collision.

 

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Maintaining your Tesla’s warranty is essential, especially after an accident. Repairs made at non-approved shops can void your warranty, leading to costly out-of-pocket repairs in the future. By choosing an approved body shop in or near Haddonfield, NJ, you ensure that all repairs are done according to Tesla’s strict standards, preserving your vehicle’s warranty. This not only protects you financially but also guarantees the quality of the repair.

 

Aluminum Repairs Require Special Touch

Unlike most vehicles that use steel, Tesla vehicles are primarily made from aluminum to reduce weight and improve efficiency. However, repairing aluminum is more challenging than repairing steel, requiring specialized training and equipment. An approved body shop has technicians who are trained to handle Tesla’s aluminum construction, ensuring that any repairs to the frame or body are done with precision.

 

Quality Assurance and Safety Standards

Tesla-approved body shops adhere to strict quality and safety standards to ensure that every repair meets the manufacturer’s guidelines. This level of precision is crucial in maintaining the structural integrity and safety features of your Tesla. Whether you’re dealing with cosmetic damage or more significant structural issues, an approved shop ensures that your car is restored to its pre-accident condition with a focus on safety and reliability.

 

Seamless Insurance Claims

Navigating insurance claims after an accident can be time-consuming and stressful. Tesla-approved body shops have experience working with insurance providers and can help streamline the claims process. This includes handling the necessary documentation, ensuring that the repairs are covered, and coordinating with the insurance adjusters to get your vehicle back on the road as quickly as possible.

 

Trust Your Tesla to a Approved Body Shop in Mt. Ephraim, NJ

When your Tesla needs repairs after an accident, choosing an approved body shop is the best way to ensure the highest quality service. Elmer’s Auto Body in Mt. Ephraim, NJ, close to Haddonfield, is equipped to handle Tesla repairs with certified technicians, genuine parts, and the right tools for the job. We work closely with Tesla to ensure that every repair meets their rigorous standards, so you can trust that your vehicle will be restored to its original condition.

 

Contact Elmer’s Auto Body today to schedule a repair estimate and experience the benefits of bringing your Tesla to an approved body shop near Haddonfield, NJ. Let us help you get back on the road safely and confidently.

Reasons to Bring Your KIA to a Recognized Collision Repair Center in Mt. Ephraim, NJ

Getting into an accident with your KIA—or any car for that matter—is frustrating. You want to have your vehicle restored to its pre-accident condition with no questions asked, but you can’t go around choosing just any collision repair center. Some may have technicians that don’t know anything about your KIA. Choosing a recognized collision repair center in Mt. Ephraim, NJ, such as Elmer’s Auto Body, offers several advantages, from maintaining your warranty to ensuring the quality of repairs. Here are the key reasons why you should trust a professional, certified auto body shop for your KIA.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Recognized collision repair centers employ technicians trained specifically in KIA models, ensuring they use the correct repair techniques and tools for your vehicle’s complex design.
  • Repairs done at recognized collision centers help maintain your KIA’s warranty, protecting you from potential future costs.
  • With strict adherence to KIA’s quality and safety standards, a recognized repair center ensures your vehicle is safe to drive after repairs.
  • Certified repair centers have the specialized tools to recalibrate your KIA’s modern safety features, ensuring optimal performance after an accident.

 

1. Certified Technicians for KIA Repairs

KIA vehicles are designed with advanced technology, safety features, and specific repair requirements. A recognized collision repair center employs technicians who are trained and certified to work on KIAs. These professionals understand the complexities of your vehicle’s design, ensuring the correct repair techniques are applied. Certified technicians also have access to specialized tools and the latest repair procedures to restore your KIA’s performance and appearance.

 

2. Use of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Parts

A significant benefit of choosing a recognized collision repair center is their access to KIA’s OEM parts. These parts are designed specifically for your KIA model, ensuring the best fit and function. Aftermarket parts might not meet the same quality standards, potentially compromising your vehicle’s safety, warranty, or resale value. By using OEM parts, a certified repair center guarantees that your KIA will perform as it did before the accident.

 

3. Warranty Protection

Using a recognized collision repair center helps protect your KIA’s warranty. Many automakers, including KIA, require that repairs be done by certified professionals to maintain the integrity of the vehicle’s warranty. This ensures that if any future issues arise related to the repairs, they will be covered. Non-certified shops may not be able to offer this level of protection, leaving you at risk for out-of-pocket expenses.

 

4. Advanced Technology and Tools

Modern KIA models come equipped with advanced technology such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and other driver-assist features. A certified collision repair center in Mt. Ephraim has the right tools and diagnostic equipment to accurately repair these systems. They ensure your KIA’s advanced safety features are recalibrated correctly, maintaining the performance and safety of your vehicle post-repair.

 

5. Quality Assurance and Safety Standards

A recognized collision repair center follows strict quality assurance and safety standards set by KIA. This means that every repair is done with attention to detail, ensuring your vehicle is safe to drive. Whether it’s restoring the structural integrity of your KIA or making sure all safety systems are functioning properly, a certified shop prioritizes your safety and the quality of the repair work.

 

Fun fact: Elmer’s Auto Body does this for you, even if you don’t drive a KIA!

 

6. Insurance Claims Assistance

Dealing with insurance claims after an accident can be overwhelming. A recognized collision repair center can help streamline the process by working directly with your insurance provider. They understand the documentation required and can help you get the repairs approved quickly, saving you time and hassle. This collaboration ensures that the repair process moves smoothly and efficiently, reducing your stress.

 

Trust Your Mt. Ephraim Collision Repair Center With Your KIA

When your KIA needs repair after a collision, trust Elmer’s Auto Body in Mt. Ephraim, NJ, for expert, certified service. Our team of experienced technicians, access to OEM parts, and commitment to maintaining your vehicle’s warranty make us the right choice for restoring your KIA to its original condition. Contact Elmer’s Auto Body today for a repair estimate or to learn more about how we can help with your KIA collision repair.

Brined Roads: What Does It Mean For Your Car in New Jersey?

The winter months are a time when caution should take priority on the roads. Even when the roadways look safe, there may be black ice or slick spots that cause you to lose control of your vehicle. That is why New Jersey authorities aim to keep the roads free of such dangers. One common method used by state and local authorities is to pre-treat roads with brine. While this practice helps prevent ice formation and improves road safety, it can have unintended consequences for your vehicle. Understanding what road brine is, how it affects your car, and how to protect your vehicle is essential, especially during winter in New Jersey.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Road brine, a mix of salt and water, helps prevent ice formation on roads but can be corrosive to vehicles due to its high salt content.
  • Brine can corrode the undercarriage, brake lines, and exhaust system, leading to rust. It can also damage car paint, especially around wheel wells and lower panels.
  • To prevent brine damage, regularly wash your car (especially the undercarriage), apply wax for protection, inspect for rust, and consider rust-proofing treatments.
  • Brine may help reduce ice, but it can also make roads slick and worsen damage in a collision by corroding vehicle parts, increasing repair costs.
  • If your vehicle is damaged by brine or in an accident, Elmer’s Auto Body offers professional collision repair in South Jersey to keep your car in top shape for winter.

 

What is Road Brine?

Road brine is a mixture of salt and water used as a pre-treatment for roads before a snowstorm or a significant drop in temperature. The solution typically consists of around 23% salt, which helps to lower the freezing point of water on the roads. By applying brine in advance, the goal is to prevent snow and ice from bonding to the pavement, making it easier to plow the roads or for the ice to melt once traffic begins.

 

When driving, you may notice white lines that are thinner and fainter than paint. That is the brine on the road, left behind by the spreaders used by the roadway authorities.

Brined Roads: What Does It Mean For Your Car in New Jersey

What Does Brining Do?

Brining is meant to protect drivers. When brine is applied to roads, it forms a thin, protective layer that prevents ice and snow from freezing onto the pavement. This proactive approach allows plow trucks to clear snow more easily and ensures that roads are less slippery during the first hours of a storm. As a result, accidents due to icy conditions may be reduced, and emergency services can navigate roads more safely. However, while brining is effective for road safety, it can be harsh on vehicles over time.

 

How Do Brined Roads Affect a Motor Vehicle?

Unfortunately, the same brine that makes driving safer can also be corrosive to your car. The high salt content in brine can cling to your vehicle’s undercarriage, exhaust system, brake lines, and even metal surfaces, leading to rust and corrosion if not properly addressed. Continuous exposure to salt over the winter months can weaken key components of your car, including the frame, causing long-term damage.

 

Corrosion is particularly dangerous because it often starts out of sight, leaving many car owners unaware of the issue until serious problems arise.

 

Additionally, brine can damage the car’s paint. When it dries, the salty residue can stick to your car’s exterior, especially along the wheel wells and lower body panels. Over time, this buildup can lead to chipped paint, exposing bare metal to the elements and accelerating the rusting process.

 

What Can You Do to Protect Your Car from Brined Roads in New Jersey?

As you now know, brined roads enhance the safety of the roads, but they can also cause damage to your car, truck, or SUV. Fortunately, there are several preventive strategies you can use to minimize such damage, including:

 

  • Regular Washing: During winter months, regularly washing your car is essential. Focus on cleaning the undercarriage, wheel wells, and areas where brine residue accumulates. Look for car washes that offer undercarriage cleaning services to fully remove any salt buildup.
  • Wax Your Vehicle: Applying a fresh coat of wax before winter creates a protective barrier on your car’s paint, reducing the likelihood of salt damage.
  • Inspect Your Car Frequently: Check your vehicle for signs of rust, especially in areas that are prone to salt exposure. Early detection can prevent further damage.
  • Use a Rust-Proofing Treatment: Consider applying a rust-proofing product to the undercarriage and other vulnerable areas. These treatments can prevent salt and moisture from reaching metal surfaces.

 

Can Road Brine Make an Accident Worse?

Brine may help prevent icy roads, but it can also contribute to more severe collisions when accidents do occur. Salt residue makes roads slick, and while it is meant to dissolve ice, it can also cause vehicles to lose traction under certain conditions. Drivers who aren’t cautious on brined roads may still face sliding hazards, especially at higher speeds. Furthermore, if brine corrodes key components of your vehicle, such as the braking system or suspension, it could lead to a higher likelihood of an accident. Brine also can make post-collision damage worse by exposing previously unaffected areas to corrosive chemicals, increasing repair costs.

 

Collision Damage? Contact Elmer’s Auto Body for Collision Repair in South Jersey

Brined roads in the winter in New Jersey are meant to keep people safe, but brining can also be a double-edged sword. The salt used in the brine can damage your vehicle, and it can even make the roadways slick in certain conditions. Drive carefully!

 

If your vehicle has been involved in an accident, especially after traveling on brined roads, the team at Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. From assessing corrosion damage to providing expert collision repair, we offer top-notch services in South Jersey. Protect your vehicle and ensure it’s ready for the winter season by contacting us today for a professional inspection and repair. Call one of our three South Jersey locations to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.