Tips to Protect Your Car from Rusting in the Winter

It's not uncommon for cars, trucks and other vehicles to rust during the winter season. The excess moisture and salts used to keep the roads driveable create an ideal environment for rust. So, what steps can you take to protect your car from rusting in the winter?

Wax Every Few Months

Try to get into the habit of waxing your car once every few months. Doing so creates a protective barrier between your car and the outside elements, reducing the risk of rust. A good rule of thumb is to wax your car once every 3-4 months. Waxing it more frequently than this amount could backfire by smothering the paint. But if you wax it less frequently than once every 3-4 months, you run the risk of rust forming. 

Park in the Garage

Assuming you have access to a covered garage, park your car here in the winter instead of outside in the driveway. Keeping your car covered will protect it from rain, snow and anything else mother nature has to throw its way.

Seal the Undercarriage

According to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), you can protect your car from road salt-related rusting by sealing the undercarriage. This includes both the brake and fuel lines, which are most susceptible to corrosion from road salts. There are many different products designed specifically for sealing areas such as this. Alternatively, you can take your car to an auto shop and ask them to do it.

Wash Every Few Weeks

In addition to waxing your car, you should also wash it. During the winter, salts from the road -- or salts from coastal ocean breezes -- can facilitate the formation of rust and corrosion. By washing your car every few weeks, however, you'll minimize the impact of salt exposure.

These are just a few tips to protect your car from rusting this winter. Just remember to wash and wax it frequently, seal the undercarriage, and park in a covered garage. Following these otherwise simple steps will go a long ways in preventing the formation of rust and corrosion.