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Salt helps keep Indiana roads drivable when winter weather hits. According to the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), more than 1,000 snowplows and up to 2,000 staff members, including snowplow drivers, work to clear nearly 30,000 lane miles of state roads, U.S. routes and interstates. That total does not include many of the other roads or side streets Hoosiers use daily. 

Salt is good for helping improve driving conditions on roads, but it can be hard on the vehicles driving on those roads. According to USA Today, road salt helps to melt ice, but it can also eat away at paint, cause rust and damage a car's body and undercarriage. Over time, that can lead to more serious problems. 

These tips can help protect your car through the snowy season and into spring. 

Wash your car often

In snowy conditions, spray down your car at least once a week. Consumer Reports recommends a car wash that targets the undercarriage at least once a month. Additional washes may be needed after significant winter storms or periods of salt buildup. Consider the cost required maintenance. It might help to save you money on expensive repairs later. 

Give older vehicles extra attention

Years of exposure to road salt can take a toll. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), vehicles made in 2007 and earlier are especially susceptible to brake pipe corrosion from salt exposure. 

As your car ages, have a mechanic inspect it regularly for corrosion. Also, pay attention to how your brake pedal feels in cold weather. Any change may be an indication of a leak in the brake line. 

Add a protective layer

Use a synthetic wax or paint sealant to help shield your paint from harsh salt. According to Flagship Car Wash, these products help form a smooth, durable layer over the transparent clear coat layer above the paint. That layer helps repel water and makes it harder for grime, road salt and other materials to bond directly to the paint.  

Detail in spring

Once spring arrives, thoroughly detail the exterior so salt does not sit on the surface. According to Autogeek, leftover road salt can lead to corrosion on metal surfaces, damage the clear coat and cause premature wear. Since winter wears down wax and sealants, a thorough wash in the spring clears the surface for fresh protection. Autogeek provides step-by-step instructions for the spring cleaning on its website. 

Prepare early next winter

Next year, before winter, check your paint for chips and scrapes. Those spots are more susceptible to rust, so give them special attention or work with a professional to address the issues. 

Road salt may be a fact of life for Hoosier drivers, but a little care can go a long way. Wash often, add a layer of protection and give your car a thorough spring cleaning. That way, it will hopefully carry you through winter, and many seasons beyond.