Winter care tips aka AVOID RUST?

sensinitas · December 18, 2015

Hey all-

Just picked up a new '16 Sierra AT. I live in Michigan where winters can be a little brutal, and salt becomes a normal part of life. Before this truck I had an 04 Denali that I didn't really give a shit about, so never really took the time to research what should be done to keep the truck in good condition.

Now I have a brand new truck that I'm hell bent on keeping looking brand new. I just dropped it off today for a clear bra. Will have Opticoat applied when the Spring rolls around.

I spoke with the detailer regarding the underbody, and they mentioned they do a coating (forget the brand) that cost $675. They recommended doing it before the truck sees any salt...They also said some people do an oil coating in the door jams and underbody. That just sounds messy to me.

Wondering what tips and suggestions you guys have for avoiding rust and keeping the truck looking new.

Thanks all! Pics for clicks!

fondupot · December 18, 2015

Wash off the salt every few weeks.

07Softail · December 19, 2015

That would suck having to deal with all of that salt protection bullshit!!

RT

therink · December 20, 2015

I live in NYS where salt is used when not even needed. I have always been able to keep my vehicles fairly good looking, but is a lot of work. I wash at least once week. When too cold to wash I bring it to my shop at work and wash it there. I find no need for undercoating as long as the underside, door jambs, door edges, wheel wells, under hood and every other exposed area is flushed with water regularly. I pay special attention to lower inside edges of doors and even pull out the weather strips to make sure all built up salt, road grime is removed on regular basis. A good quality wax maintained on paint helps as well.