How to Clean Salt from a Car?

Removing road salt from your car is crucial to prevent corrosion and maintain its appearance. A thorough cleaning involves several steps.

Thorough Rinse: Begin by rinsing your entire car with a garden hose set to high pressure. Pay close attention to the undercarriage, wheel wells, and rocker panels, areas where salt tends to accumulate. This initial rinse removes a significant amount of loose salt. (Source: Multiple sources, including various online forums and articles)
Vinegar Solution: Prepare a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar in a bucket. Use a soft brush or sponge to apply this solution to any remaining salt stains, focusing on stubborn areas. White vinegar helps neutralize the salt. (Source: Multiple sources including articles and forum posts)
Final Rinse: After applying the vinegar solution, thoroughly rinse the entire car again with the garden hose to remove all traces of the vinegar and remaining salt. (Source: Multiple sources including articles and forum posts)

Additional Tips for Salt Removal:

Frequency: Wash your car at least every two weeks during winter months to prevent salt buildup and corrosion. (Source: Rochester Toyota blog)
Undercarriage Cleaning: Consider using a pressure washer with a soap container filled with vinegar for a more efficient undercarriage cleaning. (Source: EricTheCarGuy forum)
Protective Measures: Installing all-weather rubber mats helps prevent salt from entering the car's interior. (Source: Premier Detailing and Wash article)
Temperature Considerations: While washing in cold weather is effective, warmer temperatures (above freezing) are ideal for optimal salt removal. (Source: Adams Forums and multiple articles)