What does road salt do to your car?

Gritting salt lowers the freezing point of water and prevents slippery roads, but it also has an aggressive effect on materials. In combination with moisture and oxygen, salt accelerates the corrosion process, especially on vulnerable areas such as:

• Wheel arches

• Wheels

• Sills

• Chassis (vehicle underbody)

In addition, road salt breaks down existing protective layers. Waxes and sealants deteriorate more quickly, leaving the paint less protected and allowing dirt to adhere more easily.

Why washing your car more often in winter is important

Many drivers wash their cars less frequently in winter, while this is exactly the period when dirt and salt accumulate the most. Road salt attracts moisture and often remains on the vehicle for extended periods, increasing the risk of damage.

By cleaning and protecting your car regularly:

• the risk of corrosion is reduced

• paintwork stays in good condition for longer

• visibility and safety are maintained

Washing your car in winter in 5 steps

1. Loosen road salt with an effective pre-cleaner

A safe wash always starts with pre-cleaning. This removes the majority of winter dirt without touching the paintwork. Cartec Twister Comfort is specially developed for this first step. Twister effortlessly removes road salt, snow residue and traffic film. This reduces friction during washing and minimizes the risk of scratches. Important all year round, but absolutely essential in winter.

2. Effective washing without risk to paint and glass

After pre-washing, a thorough yet gentle hand wash is essential. Preferably use cold or lukewarm water; hot water can actually spread salt further. Avoid hot water altogether, as temperature differences can cause windows to expand and may result in cracks.

Cartec Cherry Wash is pH-neutral and suitable for frequent use in winter conditions. It effectively removes salt residues and leaves a pleasant cherry scent. Washing with a mitt loosens static dirt that may remain after pre-cleaning. Hand washing is essential for proper preparation for the next step.

3. Thoroughly clean wheels and wheel arches

Wheels and wheel arches endure the most exposure to road salt in winter. Brake dust and salt together form an aggressive combination. Cartec Wheel Cleaner (acid free) removes stubborn winter dirt and can be used brush-free. Allow it to work for 1–2 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

Cartec Iron Wash helps remove embedded metal particles and brake dust. It is suitable for sensitive wheels as a powerful yet safe wheel cleaner. Also rinse thoroughly after 1–2 minutes.

4. Maintain windows, rubbers and details

Poor visibility is a common issue in winter. Clearing snow from the windows before driving is always recommended. In addition, it’s important to keep windows clean on both the inside and outside. This reduces fogging and ensures you can drive off more quickly and safely. Cartec Glass Cleaner XL provides clean, streak-free windows and optimal visibility during snow and rain.

Door and window rubbers remain flexible and protected when treated after cleaning with Cartec Vinyl. This prevents drying out, freezing and wear, making it easier to open doors on cold mornings.

5. Protect against new contamination

In winter, dirt and road salt quickly adhere to paintwork again. A dirt-repellent protective layer helps prevent this and makes maintenance easier.

Cartec Wet & Protect provides immediate water- and dirt-repellent protection after washing, reducing the grip of road salt and traffic dirt on paintwork and wheels. Combined with Twister Comfort and Cherry Wash, this creates a safe and preventive approach: first effective cleaning, then immediate protection.

The result is paintwork that stays cleaner for longer and is easier to maintain during winter conditions. Be sure to dry seams and rubbers thoroughly after activating Wet & Protect to help prevent freezing.

Winter conditions are unavoidable, but vehicle damage doesn’t have to be. By cleaning regularly and applying the right protective products, a vehicle remains cleaner, safer and in top condition for longer.