March 25, 2025
Winter can be harsh on your car. From rust caused by road salt to dents from ice and snow, these issues can damage your vehicle's appearance and structure. Here's a quick rundown of the five most common auto body repairs after winter:
Key Tip: Address these issues early to save money and maintain your car's value. Regular maintenance like washing, waxing, and inspections can prevent costly repairs.
Road salt can speed up rust formation on your car, especially in areas like the undercarriage, brake system, exhaust system, and metal body panels. Bruce Cureton, Owner of Beacon Collision Center, explains:
"You'll start to see salt damage in probably five, six, seven years; it really depends on how exposed it is."
When salt combines with water, it forms ions that stick to metal surfaces, leading to oxidation. On average, rust repair costs around $500, so catching it early can save you money. The repair process depends on how severe the rust is:
To minimize salt damage, experts recommend:
"Corrosion is the most significant danger salt poses to your car. The car's metal reacts badly to water, especially with prolonged exposure."
Addressing rust early and following these tips can help your car handle the winter months better. Up next, we'll tackle how to deal with dents caused by ice and snow.
Winter can wreak havoc on your car's metal panels. Cold weather makes metal contract and brittle, while the weight of snow and ice can leave dents. Here’s how to address these issues based on the severity of the damage.
Winter can be brutal on your car's paint. Road salt doesn’t just sit on the surface - it reacts with moisture to create corrosive ions that eat away at protective coatings, leaving your car’s metal vulnerable. Catching and fixing paint damage early can save you from expensive repairs later.
Look out for these warning signs:
When you take your car to a professional, here's what typically happens:
"Road salt can damage your car in ways you may not expect, but taking the right steps can prevent lasting harm. By being proactive with protective coatings, regular washes, and timely repairs, you can shield your vehicle from the corrosive effects of road salt and keep it looking great for years to come." - M&G Body Shop
To keep your car protected, follow these maintenance tips:
Next up, we’ll dive into repairing winter windshield damage.
Winter weather can be tough on your windshield. The combination of temperature changes, ice, and salt can turn small flaws into major problems. Taking care of these issues quickly is crucial.
Temperature shifts can cause small chips to grow into larger cracks. Ice and road salt only make things worse. As Auto Glass Now explains:
"Cold weather can indeed cause your windshield to crack and break if it is already chipped, cracked, or fractured due to the acute weather change".
When handled by a professional, the repair process usually involves these steps:
This process helps restore your windshield and prevents further issues.
You can reduce the risk of windshield damage during winter by following these tips:
For minor damage, DIY repair kits can be a good option if used under the right conditions. Keep these factors in mind:
Taking care of windshield damage early keeps your car ready for whatever winter throws at it. Up next: learn how to handle winter bumper damage and repairs.
Winter roads can be tough on your car's bumpers. Knowing the types of damage and your repair options is key to keeping your vehicle safe and in good shape.
Cold weather makes plastic bumpers more prone to cracking. In fact, rear-end collisions make up 29% of all car accidents during winter conditions. Let’s break down the typical winter hazards that can lead to bumper damage:
The cost of fixing a bumper depends on the extent of the damage and your vehicle type. Here's a quick look at what you might spend:
Labor rates can range from $48 to $215 per hour, depending on where you live and the make of your car.
After winter bumper damage, it’s important to get a professional inspection. Many modern bumpers have sensors and other components that need to be checked carefully. An expert can help you decide whether to repair or replace the bumper.
Want to reduce the risk of bumper damage this winter? Try these tips:
When it comes to fixing your bumper, you’ve got a few choices:
Taking care of common winter damage quickly can help prevent small issues from turning into big, expensive problems. Winter weather can harm your vehicle's body fast, so addressing repairs right away is key to maintaining safety, structure, and value. Studies show rust can form quickly, making it critical to handle even minor damage as soon as possible.
Delaying repairs isn’t just risky - it’s costly. Waiting allows rust to spread, paint damage to worsen, and repair bills to climb. Ignoring damage can also lead to a noticeable drop in your car's resale value. Acting promptly saves money and preserves your vehicle's condition.
Taking care of your vehicle is about more than just appearances - it’s about protecting your investment. Professional repairs not only restore the way your car looks but also help maintain its structure and resale value. After completing winter repairs, keep your car in good shape by applying protective wax, checking for new damage regularly, and addressing issues as they arise.
At Custom Collision, our ASE-certified technicians are equipped to handle all kinds of winter damage. From paintless dent repair to rust removal and paint restoration, we’ve got you covered in our cutting-edge facility.
Here’s what one customer had to say:
"Custom Collision is a great place! We hit a deer and they were exceptional to work with! They kept me informed about my vehicle, were speedy and did awesome work on the vehicle! I highly recommend this place if anyone is in need of repairs!" - Jennifer
Don’t let winter damage compromise your car’s safety or value. With timely repairs and regular maintenance, you can keep your vehicle in top shape and protect your investment for years to come.
