MICHIGAN — AAA is warning drivers that winter road salt can cause hidden and expensive vehicle damage by accelerating rust on undercarriages. The organization issued the alert from Dearborn, Mich., on Feb. 18, 2026, noting that the damage often occurs in areas that are difficult for drivers to see.
Road salt helps improve traction on icy roads, but it can weaken critical components like brake lines and suspension systems. Because this corrosion is typically classified as normal wear and tear, the resulting damage is usually not covered by standard insurance policies.
Rust caused by road salt can weaken structural parts, brake lines and suspension systems. While salt is applied to roads to improve traction during winter weather, it often accumulates in hard-to-reach areas. Routine washing is considered an inexpensive way to prevent this damage and avoid the need for structural repairs.
Adrienne Woodland is the spokesperson for AAA-The Auto Club Group. She noted that modern vehicle designs remain susceptible to winter weather conditions. “Salt damage is easy to miss because it happens underneath the vehicle,” Woodland said. “Even with today’s corrosion-resistant designs, the undercarriage is still vulnerable. And because corrosion is considered normal wear and tear, it’s usually not covered by insurance.”
Electric vehicles face unique risks from road salt because battery packs, cooling lines and electronics are positioned low in the chassis. Components such as high-voltage connectors, charging ports and aluminum battery housings can degrade faster than similar parts on gasoline-powered vehicles. These elements are highly sensitive to corrosion.
Woodland emphasized the importance of monitoring these specific components to ensure the long-term health of an electric vehicle. “Winter road salt is one of the most overlooked threats to EV longevity,” Woodland said. “Protecting the battery and electronics is essential.”
To mitigate these risks, AAA suggests that electric vehicle owners rinse the undercarriage regularly and apply corrosion-inhibiting coatings. Drivers should also keep charging ports dry and free of salt while periodically inspecting sensors and wiring. Parking indoors can further protect these vehicles from the elements.
For all vehicle types, AAA recommends washing at least every two weeks, particularly after driving on heavily salted roads. Drivers should prioritize car washes that feature underbody sprays to target the undercarriage. Applying a fresh coat of wax before the winter season can also provide a shield for the paint against moisture and salt.
AAA-The Auto Club Group is the second-largest AAA club in North America, serving more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states and two U.S. territories. The organization is part of the national AAA federation, which includes 66 million members in the United States and Canada.