Montana winters are as breathtaking as they are brutal. The snowy landscapes and icy roads can make driving a challenge, but the real trouble often happens to your car. Snow, ice, road salt, and freezing temperatures all take their toll on vehicles in ways that might not be immediately obvious.
When winter comes, it’s not just about driving safely—it’s also about understanding and addressing the damage that harsh weather conditions can inflict on your car. Here’s what you need to know about common winter vehicle issues and how to fix them.
The Problem with Road Salt and Rust
Road salt helps keep Montana’s roads passable during icy conditions, but it’s a nightmare for your car’s metal surfaces. Salt works its way into every crevice, especially the undercarriage, speeding up the rusting process. Even a small scratch in your car’s paint can allow salt to cause damage.
If you notice bubbling paint, flaking metal, or reddish stains around the wheel wells or underside of your car, it’s likely rust. The best way to fix this is to act quickly. Rust can often be sanded away, and the affected area can be repainted to prevent further damage. If the rust has spread extensively, a rust-proofing treatment or undercoating may be necessary.
Paint Scratches Are More Than Cosmetic
It’s easy to accidentally scrape your car while clearing ice or heavy snow off the roof and windows. These small scratches might seem insignificant at first, but they leave your car vulnerable to moisture and salt, which can lead to rust.
If you spot scratches on your car, it’s worth addressing them promptly. For minor scuffs, touch-up paint or a good polish can do the trick. Larger or deeper scratches may require professional help. Taking care of the problem now will save you time and money later.
Winter’s Impact on Tires
Cold weather affects your tires more than you might think. The drop in temperature can reduce tire pressure, and the added stress of icy roads or hitting unseen potholes can lead to uneven wear or punctures. Damaged tires don’t just affect your safety; they can also strain other parts of your car.
Check your tires frequently during the winter. Look for uneven tread wear, cracks, or bulges. Make sure your tire pressure stays within the recommended range. If a tire shows significant damage or wear, it’s better to replace it than to risk a blowout.
Cracked Windshields Are Common
Have you ever had a tiny windshield chip suddenly turn into a long crack? It’s a common problem in winter, especially in Montana, where road debris and fluctuating temperatures make matters worse.
If you see chips or small cracks, don’t wait to have them repaired. Professional windshield repair can seal minor damage, preventing it from spreading. For larger cracks, replacement may be the safest option. A clear, intact windshield is essential for safe winter driving.
Batteries Don’t Like the Cold
Cold temperatures are notorious for draining car batteries. If your battery is already on its last legs, winter weather could leave you stranded.
Signs of a weak battery include slow engine cranking, dim headlights, or trouble powering electrical systems. Before winter hits, have your battery tested. If it’s old or struggling to hold a charge, it’s wise to replace it before it fails completely.
Wipers Need Winter Prep Too
Your windshield wipers are your best friend during a snowstorm, but they’re also easy to overlook. Ice buildup can tear or crack the rubber, making them less effective and leaving you with streaky visibility.
Replace worn-out blades with winter-grade wipers that can handle snow and ice. And remember, don’t use your wipers to clear ice off the windshield. That’s what an ice scraper is for!
Suspension and Alignment Problems
Winter roads aren’t exactly smooth. Potholes, ice ruts, and unexpected bumps can all throw off your car’s alignment or damage its suspension.
If your car starts pulling to one side, feels less stable, or you notice uneven tire wear, it’s time for a professional inspection. Realigning your car not only improves your driving experience but also helps your tires last longer.
Frozen Locks and Doors
There’s nothing more frustrating than a frozen car door on a cold Montana morning. Rain or melting snow can refreeze overnight, making locks and handles stick.
You can avoid this by applying a silicone lubricant to the door seals and locks before temperatures drop. If you’re already dealing with frozen locks, use a de-icer spray or pour warm water gently over the area to loosen things up.
Prevention Is Key
While it’s important to repair winter damage as soon as you spot it, prevention can save you from dealing with the problem in the first place. Regularly washing your car, especially the undercarriage, helps remove salt and grime. Applying a fresh coat of wax or protective sealant can shield your paint from the elements.
Routine inspections also go a long way. Taking a few minutes each week to check for signs of damage can help you catch problems early before they become costly repairs.
Trust OHS Body Shop for Winter Repairs
Montana winters are tough on vehicles, but they don’t have to be tough on you. At OHS Body Shop, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing winter vehicle damage. Whether it’s a rust problem, a chipped windshield, or alignment issues, we’ve got you covered.
Don’t let winter wear down your car. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or repair, and keep your vehicle running smoothly all season long. Because when it comes to your car, it deserves the best care—winter, spring, summer, and fall.
