01/05/2026
You’re driving down Highway 12 on Hatteras Island and the sun is shining, the skies are blue, and vacation mode is turned all the way on! You’re on your way to the beach, baby, and you’re cruising because it’s hot out and you can’t wait to dive into that crystal blue ocean that keeps winking at you from the other side of the dune. Traffic has started moving slow because it rained last night and there are some puddles and standing water in certain places. You’ll dodge them when you can, but traffic is heavy on both sides and it’s a 2-lane highway without much room for error, so when you can’t dodge them, you’ll just give the ol’ undercarriage a good rinse, right?
WRONG!
Remember that sassy bumper sticker you saw the day before saying something about salt water? Well, this is what it’s referring to. As island locals know far too well, driving your car through salt water can cause serious and lasting damage to your vehicle, and most puddles/standing water on the island are salt water due to the nature of our environment and proximity to the ocean and sound. It’s highly corrosive, and when it comes into contact with metal components like your car’s frame, suspension, or brake lines, it can accelerate rust and deterioration. Electrical systems, sensors, and wiring are also vulnerable. Salt water can cause short circuits or corrosion in connectors that may lead to expensive repairs down the road. So in an effort to preserve your vehicle while also being courteous to others, please, slow down when driving through it.
Even brief exposure can start the corrosion process, especially if the salt water splashes up into the undercarriage or engine bay. That’s why it’s best to avoid driving through it whenever possible. If you must cross an area with standing water, it’s important to assume it is salt water and drive slowly. Moving too fast causes waves and splashes that push salt water higher into the engine, wheel wells, and undercarriage, increasing the risk of damage. Slow driving helps minimize water intrusion, gives your tires better traction on slippery or uneven surfaces, and is courteous to other drivers and their vehicles.
After driving through any salt water, it’s smart to rinse your vehicle, especially the underside, as soon as possible. A thorough wash helps remove salt before it can start corroding your car’s vital components, protecting both its performance and longevity.
