Avoid costly winter car damage & stay safe on icy roads: Tips from Harrisonburg Collision Center

Winter weather can be brutal on your vehicle—and your safety. Here’s how to protect your car and yourself this winter.

By Jacquelynn Dobrin January 30, 2025 8:00 am

HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) — Winter weather can be brutal on your vehicle—and your safety. At Harrisonburg Collision Center, we see it all, from scratched paint to broken door handles and even avoidable accidents. Here’s how to protect your car and yourself this winter.

Removing Snow the Right Way

You’d be amazed at how many people use a shovel to clear snow off their car. Bad idea. The same goes for spatulas—yes, we’ve seen it! Both can scratch and dent your vehicle, leading to expensive repairs.

Instead, use a snow rake with a foam head. While many people rely on brushes, they can trap gravel and grit, which can scratch your paint. A foam snow rake is a safer choice.

Winter Road Chemicals: A Hidden Threat

Beyond the snow, winter roads are treated with chemicals and salt that build up on your car’s underside. After a storm, be sure to wash under your vehicle to prevent corrosion—especially in areas like the wheel well and undercarriage, where damage can go unnoticed until it’s too late.

Frozen Windows and Doors: What NOT to Do

Forcing a frozen window down can damage the motor and window track, leading to costly repairs. The same goes for forcing open a frozen door handle—you might end up breaking it.

Top Safety Tips for Driving in Icy Conditions

✔ Clear your vehicle completely—Don’t be the person peeping through a tiny hole in an icy windshield. Make sure all windows, mirrors, and lights are fully cleared. ✔ Drive defensively—You never know what kind of conditions another driver is dealing with. ✔ Always assume there could be black ice—Even when the roads look clear, ice can be lurking.

Prepping Your Car for Snow & Ice

✔ Check your tires—Don’t assume they can make it until spring. Worn-out tires are a disaster waiting to happen. ✔ Keep windshield washer fluid filled—You’ll need it to battle slush and road grime. ✔ Test your antifreeze—Antifreeze fatigues over time, so be sure to get it checked.

Can Winter Damage Lead to Bigger Problems?

Absolutely. Neglecting winter damage can lead to: ✔ Water leaks—Ice buildup can create gaps that let water seep into your car. ✔ Electrical issues—Snow and moisture can interfere with electronic components.

Need Help? Give Us a Call!

If you have questions about winter car care—or need repairs—just give Harrisonburg Collision Center a call. We’re happy to help keep your car in top shape all season long!