It's winter time and that mean TxDot crews are laying down some brine to keep the roads from freezing.
That's the good news, but after the snow passes experts say that you should wash your car as soon as you can.
Brine is a corrosive mixture of salt and water that can rapidly accelerate rust on your vehicle's undercarriage, especially when left untreated for an extended amount of time. It can actually cause significant damage to your car's metal components, particularly in areas where moisture can accumulate.
Basically, the sooner you wash off that brine, the less likely you are to experience rust issues later on.
Key points about brine and your car:
- Corrosion potential: Brine is more corrosive than dry salt alone because the water component allows it to reach tight spaces and crevices on your car's undercarriage, making it easier for rust to develop.
- Winter driving hazard: Road crews often use brine to melt ice on roads during winter, which means your car is likely to be exposed to it frequently during cold weather.
- Regular washing is crucial: To minimize damage, it's important to wash your car regularly during winter, especially after driving on roads treated with brine, to remove the salt residue