Depending where you live and work in Tampa, the beach may affect your car. For those of us who love to fish and spend time on the bay or gulf, you’re more likely to see some of the damaging effects that require car repair than someone who stays inland most of the time. And, if you head to one of the beaches where you can actually drive on the sand, you’re putting your car into a situation where there will be damage.
Damage Takes Time
The more often your car is exposed to sand and saltwater air, the more quickly damage occurs and the more significant the car repair. Most people only worry about how their car looks, but the damage that occurs underneath is what you should be concerned about. Some parts of the car that see the most significant damage from sand and salt air include:
- Brakes – Not only can the sand prematurely wear the brake pads, but it can also harm the rest of the braking system by preventing the moving parts from moving as they should.
- Air filters – The purpose of an air filter is to keep harmful things out of your engine. However, when you drive around sand frequently, your filters clog more quickly. Checking them often will help.
- Nuts and Bolts – Your car is held together with nuts and bolts. The different elements are held in place and sand and salt air cause issues. Driving around the corrosive salt water can cause significant damage.
- Belts – Sand is abrasive. Your belts are often made of rubber. When the rubber is exposed over and over again, the belts will weaken and eventually break.
What You Should Do
First, avoid driving on the beach. It may be fun but it’s not good for your car. In addition to the damage your engine and different elements of the car can sustain, it will scratch your paint. When you live near the beach, those small scratches will quickly turn to rust spots. Next, pay attention to where you’re driving. If there is sand, wash your car, especially the undercarriage, after exposing it to the sand. Perhaps most importantly is to pay attention to the car. Work with a mechanic for regular maintenance and immediate car repair when there is an issue will help prevent major car repair bills. It’s best to let them know you drive on the beach or frequently drive through sand. That will help them look for damage and prevent something catastrophic from happening.
Oldsmar Automotive offers comprehensive car repair and vehicle maintenance. Call us today to schedule an appointment or come by our shop at 3166 Tampa Road in Oldsmar for an estimate. We know what sand can do to a car and we can fix it.
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