Who doesn’t dream of living by the coast at some point in their life? Dreams of being close to the beach, of that awesome ocean breeze, it’s the stuff incredible car dreams are made of. The reality is almost as sweet, except for some of the problems that come with it. Coastal living and your car can easily find themselves at odds, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Here’s a primer on what the impact can be, and what you can do about it.
The Ocean and Your Paintjob
The sun and sea salt air of the coast are the things of some people’s dreams. It’s also the stuff of your paint job’s nightmares. The heat from the sun will open the pores in your paint, letting that salt and moisture in. What results is an incredible mix for corrosion that will strip your paint more quickly than you’d expect. How can you prevent it? Regular washing and waxing of your car is the key here. That extra time will buy a lot more for your paint job and let you, and your car, enjoy the coast a lot more.
Salt and the Rest of Your Car
Just like salt can have an impact on the paint, it can also lead to increased corrosion on the other parts of your car too. Brake calipers, nuts, bolts, and all kinds of undercarriage components can quickly break down. Just like your paint job, there is some effort you can make to reduce this as well. Remember to avoid driving over sand or ocean water. If you do, wash the undercarriage of the car.
The Basics of Flooding
When you live by the coast, storms and flooding are a way of life. You come to get used to them, knowing that the sun will shine on another beautiful day soon. You also learn important information to protect your car from them. Storing your car in a garage, an elevated one is a great way to avoid damage. Also remember to never drive through the water you don’t know the depth of, or to start your car if it’s sitting on a flooded road. All of these can create real engine problems and cause you a world of heartache.
Your Local Car Paint Experts
At Fender Mender, we offer top-of-the-line auto painting services to make your car look as great, or even better than it did the day you bought it. Our advanced technology and experienced staff will match your vehicle’s paint color exactly to ensure you are getting the best quality work, every time. Contact us for a free estimate if you are interested in freshening up your paint job.