You rely on your vehicle just about every day to get you from place to place. Not only do you need a high-performing, reliable engine, but other features are essential for your comforts and safety. Even the body and other exterior components need to be in good condition and function well for you to have the dependability you need. Living by the ocean in Bradenton, FL, brings different challenges for your car, as the air can wreak havoc on the paint and other elements. Following some basic tips will help preserve your vehicle.
Challenges That Ocean Air Can Give Vehicles
There are certainly advantages to living near the ocean. Many people love the smell of the ocean breeze and the coolness that the air often brings. Unfortunately, the ocean air can be an enemy to your vehicle. When the sun and salt from the air mix, it produces harmful effects on your vehicle’s finish, causing problems to the paint. The sun will enlarge the pores in the paint, providing an opportunity for the salt to get inside and start causing corrosion.
But your car’s paint job isn’t the only vulnerable spot. The vehicle’s brakes and related components, such as the calipers and pads, can start to corrode as well. The salty air can impact nuts and bolts on the vehicle. Eventually, these could rust and weaken, compromising the structural stability of the vehicle.
Keep it Covered
You can’t hide your car 24 hours a day. Inevitably, it’s going to see the sun, and the salty ocean air is going to affect it. However, there are ways you can minimize the risks of rusting. When you aren’t driving your car, make sure you cover it as best you can. If you have a garage, use it when you are not using the vehicle. If you don’t have a garage, park under trees or other structures that provide shade. Better yet, if you have a car cover, use it. If you don’t have one, you can purchase a durable, all-weather product.
Wash and Wax Frequently
Running the car through a car wash doesn’t just help it to look nice. This is necessary to preserve the paint and body. You should wash your vehicle weekly. After washing it, dry it thoroughly. Then, apply a coat of wax and rub it off. This helps the car to shine and strengthens the coat, protecting it from the sun.
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Beware of Sand
It may sound fun, but driving through the sand is a bad idea for your vehicle. It can scratch the paint and lead to corrosion. If you do get sand on your vehicle, wash it off as soon as possible. Make sure to thoroughly clean underneath the vehicle as well.
Do your part to protect your vehicle. Following these strategies can help keep your car looking great and performing well. If it needs maintenance, bring it down to the service team at Hendrick Honda Bradenton in Bradenton, Florida, right away.
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