Proper Vehicle Care: Important Part of Winter Routine
As we enter the winter months, the Southwest Car Wash Association is encouraging you to pay close attention to
proper maintenance of your vehicle. Here are some tips:
During icy road conditions many communities and states use magnesium chloride on the roads. Residue that
clings to vehicle bodies, in wheel wells and underneath is often a combination of dirt mixed with melted snow and
ice, salt, sand or anti-icing chemicals such as magnesium chloride.
Since it (magnesium chloride) is often used without sanding material, a vehicle may not look dirty even though it
may be covered with magnesium chloride. Once it gets on your car and is mixed with humidity or moisture, it can
cause corrosion.
The best way to protect a vehicle and prevent corrosion from any source is to wash it regularly and responsibly at
a professional car wash.
According to SCWA President Charlie Gates, “Washing is a very basic step in protecting your car and if you can see
any residue on it, whether residue on your vehicle is from salt, magnesium chloride, or a mud and sand mixture,
it’s time to wash it off as part of your winter routine.”
SCWA suggests not to stop there but to prepare your vehicle for the winter season by checking the following items:
- Battery
- Antifreeze
- Wipers and windshield washer fluid
- Ignition system
- Thermostat
- Headlights and flashing hazard lights
- Exhaust system
- Defroster and heater
- Brakes
- Oil level
- Tires
For more information on winter maintenance of your vehicle contact SCWA or your neighborhood professional car wash. SCWA is a professional organization of more than 6000 car washes throughout the
Southwest.
