Colorado winters are usually full of beautiful, snow-capped mountains, fresh powder, and crisp air. But for your car, truck or SUV, winter brings serious challenges. Between snow, ice, and the salt used to keep roads safe, your vehicle’s underbody and exterior can take a beating. Many Colorado drivers don’t realize it, but rust is very real—even in our high-altitude, dry climate. Here’s what you need to know about Winter Car Care in Colorado to keep your vehicle in top shape during the harshest months.
Winter Salt: The Silent Enemy
Colorado road crews rely on salt, magnesium chloride, and other de-icing chemicals to keep highways drivable during snowy or icy conditions. While these chemicals prevent accidents, they can wreak havoc on your car’s underbody making it more difficult to care for your car in the winter. Salt accelerates corrosion, leading to rust on metal components like brake lines, suspension parts, and the frame itself.
Even a few winters without protection can lead to permanent damage, affecting your car’s safety and resale value.
How Do You Take Care of Your Car During the Winter in Colorado?
1. Check for signs of rust
Many drivers assume rust only happens in coastal areas—but Colorado vehicles face unique risks. Snow, slush, and salty roads combine with moisture trapped in wheel wells and undercarriages to create ideal conditions for corrosion. High-altitude temperature swings also cause metal to expand and contract, which can crack protective coatings and expose bare metal.
Common areas where Colorado vehicles develop rust may include:
- Wheel wells and fender edges
- Underbody frame, suspension, and exhaust system
- Brake and fuel lines
- Door sills and lower panels
Rust isn’t just cosmetic—it can compromise structural integrity and mechanical components. Spotting it early is crucial. Look for bubbling paint, reddish-brown flakes, or even small holes forming in the metal.
2. Protect the Underbody of Your Car
Taking preventative steps now on your winter car care can save you headaches (and money) down the road. Here are some options:
- Undercoating: A professional undercoating creates a protective barrier against moisture, salt, and grime. This is especially helpful for older vehicles or those frequently driven on salted roads.
- Regular Washes: Washing your car every 2-3 weeks during winter, especially the undercarriage, removes salt and prevents buildup. Don’t forget wheel wells!
- Waxing & Sealants: Waxing your car before winter adds a layer of protection to paint, helping repel salt and slush.
3. Clean and Detail Your Car
Many people think detailing is only for spring or summer—but winter detailing is just as important for winter car care in Colorado. Professional detailing goes beyond a basic wash:
- Protective coatings: Sealants or ceramic coatings create a barrier against salt, sand, and grime.
- Interior care: Salt and moisture from boots and clothing can damage carpets and upholstery. Detailing removes these contaminants and protects interior surfaces.
- Wheel and undercarriage detailing: Thorough cleaning of wheels, wheel wells, and undercarriage areas helps prevent corrosion.
Regular winter detailing not only keeps your car looking great but also actively protects it from the harsh Colorado conditions. Detailing your vehicle in winter is usually the last thing most people think of doing in relation to preventative maintenance, but in Colorado, it should be an iatrical part of routine maintenance items.
4. Perform Routine Inspections
Even with preventative measures, winter roads are tough on vehicles. Make sure to:
- Inspect brakes, suspension, and exhaust for corrosion
- Check tire tread and tire pressure regularly cold air can lower pressure and reduce grip
- Look for signs of fluid leaks, which can worsen in freezing temperatures
Trust Your Colorado Winter Care Care Specialists 😉
We know winter has been slow to start here in Colorado, but that usually means we are in for one cold, severe or icy December, January & February. At Smoky Hill Auto, we specialize in underbody inspections, rust prevention, and detailing services tailored for Colorado winters. A quick inspection now can prevent costly repair services later. Do not wait until Spring or Summer to find out what damage has been done.