The weather between winter and spring can be a mess. Ice, snow, and mud rule the roads. The sanders come out in full force to battle slippery roads and the undercarriage of your car takes a beating every time. The undercarriage of a vehicle is often ignored. We tend to focus on what we see while cleaning our cars. However, the undercarriage is very important since many crucial parts reside there. Here are a few reasons why it is important to remember your undercarriage.

Avoid Rust

There are many important components under your car that are subject to rust. 

  • the transmission
  • brake lines
  • front mount
  • axles
  • exhaust system
  •  muffler

Rust can corrode through these areas resulting in costly repairs. Severe rust may even make your vehicle unsafe to drive. A rusted brake line can cause leakage, leading to brake failure. Rust also weakens the frame and poses a safety risk.

Reduce Improper Drainage

Channels and holes are located in your undercarriage to allow for drainage when your car gets wet. When these outlets are clogged with road grime and muck, water remains trapped. Once again, you may end up with a rust problem.

Extend the Integrity of Your Vehicle’s Parts

The more you take care of your car, the longer it will last. The trouble is, we often forget the undercarriage of our cars. Many car washes have the undercarriage cleaning feature. There are also undercarriage wash machines that can be purchased for home use. Run your vehicle through such a wash as soon as you can after a snowstorm or driving through mud. It is also a good idea to wash your undercarriage before taking your car for scheduled servicing. Your mechanic will be able to inspect the integrity of the undercarriage more easily if the car is clean.

If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a time to bring your vehicle in for a check-up, please give the car care professionals at Southside Auto Repair a call. We are committed to keeping you safely on the road.

Happy Travels!

Southside Auto Repair

791-561-1392