Winter saltdamage checker.
Answer five quick questions to see how much winter road salt is threatening your car — your risk level plus exactly what to do to protect the paint and undercarriage.
Why road salt destroys cars
Road salt accelerates rust by speeding up the oxidation of metal, and it eats into paint, brake lines and the underbody over a Canadian winter. The damage is invisible until it is expensive — which is why regular washing and a protective barrier matter so much in salt season.
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Questions, answered.
Does road salt really damage your car?
Yes. Salt accelerates rust and corrosion on the body, undercarriage and brake lines, and dulls or pits the paint over time.
How do I protect my car from salt?
Wash regularly through winter (including the underbody), apply a wax or ceramic sealant as a barrier, and keep up with rust protection.
How often should I wash my car in winter?
Every 1-2 weeks is ideal in heavy salt conditions — more often after slushy, salted-road driving.