Winter driving is taxing on any car or truck. And it's not just the dangers associated with sliding on snowy or icy roads. Highway maintenance departments need to put down road salt to melt freezing conditions, and that de-icing chemical can cause untold harm to your vehicle, particularly its undercarriage.
Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to protect your investment. Start by getting a pre-season inspection to make sure it is in tip-top condition before the snow flies. Give it a good waxing, too. Many dealerships and service centers can pre-treat the exposed undercarriage of your vehicle with an oil-based solution that helps to prevent road salt from adhering to its metal parts.
While it may seem counterproductive if you're out driving during or after a storm, avoid getting behind plow trucks putting down salt and sand as you're sure to expose your vehicle to a hefty concentration of chemical. And after a storm? Be sure to take your car or truck to the car wash, one that includes an undercarriage spray.