If you’ve spent any winters here in Colorado, you’ve certainly driven your car over snowy roads. And these roads are often covered in magnesium chloride, thanks to the Colorado Department of Transportation’s road de-icer. Mag chloride is a powerful salt that reduces the freezing temperature of snow—and that means that the roads stay safe and free from black ice. However, magnesium chloride can be problematic for your vehicle. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) posts a warning on their site concerning the effects of mag chloride on vehicles.
Protecting your vehicle from mag chloride is essential to ensure its longevity and performance. Regular car washes, especially focusing on the undercarriage, can help remove the chemicals and prevent corrosion.
What is magnesium chloride?
Magnesium chloride, often referred to as mag chloride, is a chemical compound used as a de-icing agent on roads during winter. It is commonly applied in the form of liquid or pellets to melt snow and ice, improving road conditions and ensuring safer driving. Mag chloride is highly effective in lowering the freezing point of water, preventing the formation of ice on road surfaces.
The impact of magnesium chloride on vehicles
While mag chloride is beneficial for road safety, it can have a significant impact on the well-being of your vehicle. The corrosive nature of mag chloride can cause damage to various parts of your car, including the undercarriage, brakes, and metal components.
Over time, the continuous exposure to mag chloride can lead to rust formation, leaks, and deterioration of your vehicle's performance.
The undercarriage of your car is particularly susceptible to mag chloride damage. As the chemical compound is sprayed onto the road surface, it can splash onto the undercarriage, where it lingers and eats away at the metal. This can weaken the structural integrity of your vehicle and potentially lead to expensive repairs.
Furthermore, mag chloride can also affect your car's braking system. The corrosive properties of the compound can cause brake lines to rust and weaken, leading to brake failure or inefficiency. This poses a serious safety risk, as compromised brakes can significantly impact your ability to stop the vehicle in a timely manner.
Signs of damage caused by magnesium chloride
It's important to be aware of the signs of mag chloride damage to protect your vehicle from further harm. Here are some common indicators that your car may be experiencing corrosion due to mag chloride exposure:
Rust formation: Look for visible signs of rust on the undercarriage, brake lines, and other metal components of your vehicle.
Leaks: If you notice any fluid leaks, such as oil or coolant, it could be a result of mag chloride damage. Corrosion can lead to weakened seals and connections, causing leaks to occur.
Strange noises: Pay attention to any unusual noises coming from your brakes or undercarriage. Grinding or squealing sounds could indicate corrosion or damage caused by mag chloride.
Reduced performance: If you notice a decrease in your vehicle's performance, such as decreased acceleration or difficulty shifting gears, it could be due to corrosion and damage caused by mag chloride.
How to protect your car from magnesium chloride damage
Protecting your car from mag chloride damage is crucial to maintain its longevity and performance. Before winter arrives, it's important to ensure your car is in optimal condition. Regular maintenance can help identify any existing issues and prevent further damage caused by mag chloride.
Consider the following winter car maintenance tips:
Check your battery: Cold temperatures can drain your car's battery quickly. Have your battery tested and replaced if necessary to avoid being stranded in freezing conditions.
Inspect your tires: Check your tire tread depth and ensure they are properly inflated. Good traction is essential for safe driving on icy roads.
Top up fluids: Ensure that your car's fluids, such as antifreeze, oil, and windshield washer fluid, are at the recommended levels to prevent freezing or damage to crucial components.
Regular car washes: especially during winter, are essential for removing mag chloride and preventing corrosion. Pay special attention to the undercarriage of your vehicle, where the compound is most likely to accumulate.
Regular car inspections: are crucial to identify any issues caused by mag chloride exposure and take timely action. Schedule inspections with a trusted mechanic to ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition.
Here's how to wash your car effectively:
Choose the right car wash: Opt for a car wash that offers an undercarriage wash and high-pressure rinse to remove mag chloride effectively, such as Watermill Auto Wash.
Use a pH-neutral soap: Avoid using harsh detergents that can strip away protective coatings. Watermill Auto Wash uses a Mag Chloride Blaster specifically designed for washing off Magnesium chloride.
Thoroughly rinse your vehicle: After applying the soap, rinse your car thoroughly, paying extra attention to the undercarriage. This will help remove any remaining mag chloride residue. Watermills pressure rinse will rinse your entire car, top and bottom.
How Can Watermill Auto Wash help?
We understand your car is a valuable asset that needs to be maintained.
Here at Watermill all of our automatic touchless wash levels include pH-neutral non-acid soaps and a high pressure undercarriage wash.
For extra protections we recommend the Ultimate Plus wash which adds our unique polymer protectant Mag Chloride Blaster to the undercarriage and entire vehicle to prevent corrosion! Not to mention it is all touchless, so you do not have to worry about scratches on your vehicle.
Check out our current promotions and come visit us today!
