Expert Advice

What impact does living at the beach have on my car?

The environment in the area where you live can affect the longevity and performance of your vehicle. While coastal living offers many benefits, it can create havoc on your car or truck. Having a trustworthy and knowledgeable auto repair center can help keep damage at bay. Living at the beach comes with two major certainties that can have an effect on any vehicle: increased sun exposure and salt.

Increased Sun Exposure

Part of the appeal of living in Wilmington and surrounding areas is the warm climate and mild winters. These weather conditions make for longer summers and more time to get out and enjoy the beach. But high temperatures and sun can create wear on your vehicle over time. The hot sun increases the pores in your vehicle’s paint and makes it more susceptible to corrosion. You may notice paint loss or chipping faster than if you lived just 20 miles inland.

Salt Exposure

Because of its proximity to the ocean, the air over and near coastal towns contains higher contents of salt. Plus, vehicles that are driven near the ocean are more likely to come in contact with salt spray. If you take your vehicle out on the north end of Carolina Beach, you are guaranteed that it will be at greater risk for salt-related damage.

Increased salt exposure can lead to rust formation and corrosion of parts. The trunk, hood and edges of the doors are usually the first to rust in coastal areas. Other parts that typically show signs of corrosion are brake calipers, nuts and bolts. But with enough exposure to salt air, any part of a vehicle can corrode.

Damage Prevention By Your Local Auto Repair Center

O’Leary’s Automotive Repair is a local auto repair center that can help with routine inspections and replacement of corroded parts. For the safety of passengers and a vehicle’s performance, it’s important to get corroded parts replaced so they do not wear down to the point of failure. With four convenient locations, O’Leary’s auto repair centers have mechanics throughout the greater Wilmington area who will service and repair your car the correct way, the first time. Please contact us if you’d like to learn more about our services.