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.

Winter Collisions and Total Loss: What You Need to Know if Your Car is Deemed Non-Repairable

Winter driving means a chance for collisions that are made more severe due to snow, ice, and salt. Sometimes, even with the best precautions, a winter collision is unavoidable. For instance, you need to slam on your brakes because someone pulls out right in front of you and your car slides into them. In some cases, the damage is severe enough for the car to be deemed a “total loss,” meaning it’s considered non-repairable. For many drivers, this can be a stressful and confusing situation. Here’s what you need to know about total loss declarations, how they’re determined, and what your options are if your car is deemed non-repairable.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • A car is totaled when repair costs exceed 70-80% of its actual cash value (ACV), which is common with severe winter collision damage.
  • Insurers compare repair costs, ACV, and salvage value to decide if a vehicle is repairable or a total loss.
  • Common issues like frame and engine damage, extensive bodywork, and water intrusion from snow can make a car non-repairable.
  • Review the insurance settlement, decide whether to keep or surrender the vehicle, and consider gap insurance if you owe more than the ACV.

 

What Does Total Loss Mean?

A vehicle is considered a total loss when the cost to repair it exceeds a certain percentage of its actual cash value (ACV). This percentage, known as the total loss threshold, varies by insurance provider but typically falls between 70% and 80% of the vehicle’s ACV. If a car’s repair costs exceed this threshold, the insurance company may deem it more practical to declare the vehicle a total loss rather than pay for repairs.

 

During winter, the likelihood of a total loss increases due to the types of accidents that can happen on icy or snowy roads. Collisions that cause extensive damage to the frame, engine, or other critical components may lead to a total loss declaration. Additionally, the higher incidence of multi-car pileups in winter months can result in more severe damage, increasing the possibility of total loss determinations.

 

How Insurance Companies Determine Total Loss in Winter Collisions

There are various factors to determine when a car is repairable or non-repairable. The first thing the insurance company looks at is the vehicle’s Actual Cash Value (ACV). The ACV is the car’s market value right before the collision. This figure is based on the car’s make, model, age, mileage, and general condition. The ACV determines the financial baseline against which repair costs are compared.

 

The insurance company then compares the ACV to the cost of repairs. Repair shops and insurance adjusters estimate the cost of necessary repairs. If the cost is close to or exceeds the ACV threshold, the car is deemed a total loss.

 

Next, there’s the salvage value. This is the amount the car would be worth if sold for parts or scrap after being totaled. Salvage value also affects whether a vehicle is repairable since high salvage value could make it more cost-effective to replace rather than repair.

 

Common Winter Collision Damages That Can Lead to a Total Loss

Winter collisions in South Jersey often result in damages that are more extensive due to the environmental conditions of the season. Here are some damages that may justify a total loss declaration:

 

  • Frame and Structural Damage: Collisions on icy or snowy roads frequently impact the car’s frame. Structural damage is often difficult and costly to repair, and if the frame has bent or twisted, it may compromise vehicle safety.
  • Drivetrain and Engine Damage: Severe front-end collisions can damage the engine and drivetrain components, which are costly to repair or replace. If critical components are damaged in a winter crash, the repair costs can easily exceed the ACV.
  • Extensive Body Damage: Snow and ice can reduce visibility and increase the chances of rear-end collisions or side impacts. If the damage involves multiple panels or requires a full repaint, it could add significantly to repair costs, making a total loss more likely.
  • Flooding from Snow and Ice: Accumulated snow and ice may lead to water damage if it melts and seeps into the car’s interior or engine bay. If water damage is severe, it may be another reason for a total loss, as replacing electronics and upholstery can be prohibitively expensive.

 

What to Do If Your Car is Deemed a Total Loss

Let’s say you get into an accident this winter and your vehicle is deemed a total loss, what happens then? What can you do? Here are some steps you can take, depending on whether you decide to keep your car, salvage it, or something else:

 

  • Understand the Insurance Settlement: Your insurance provider will offer a settlement based on the ACV of your vehicle before the collision. This amount is meant to compensate you for your loss. Review this settlement carefully and compare it to local market values for similar vehicles to ensure it’s fair.
  • Keep or Surrender the Vehicle: In some cases, you may have the option to keep the totaled vehicle, which is called “retaining salvage.” However, this typically comes with certain restrictions, and the insurance payout may be reduced by the vehicle’s salvage value. If you choose to surrender it, the insurance company will take possession and handle its disposal.
  • Get a Replacement Vehicle: Use the insurance settlement to purchase a new vehicle. If you owe more on your loan than the ACV, consider gap insurance, which can help cover the difference in the event of a total loss.
  • Notify the DMV: In most states, you’ll need to submit documentation to the DMV to update the vehicle’s title and registration status. This process varies by state, so it’s best to check New Jersey’s DMV requirements if your vehicle is totaled.

 

Get Winter Collision Repair at Elmer’s Auto Body in South Jersey

If your vehicle has been involved in a winter collision, there is a chance that the damages lead to total loss. While the team at Elmer’s Auto Body can’t reverse a total loss declaration, we do aim to help drivers get back on the road as soon as possible. If your car can be repaired, we’ll do what we can. Our skilled technicians can restore your car’s safety and appearance with high-quality repairs, allowing you to get back on the road with confidence.

 

If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a winter accident, let Elmer’s Auto Body handle the repairs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our South Jersey locations.

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.

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.