The UK has been hit with a snow bomb this week, as the icy weather has arrived a month later than desired.
The snow has blind-sided some of the public, who did not expect a snow fall following the warmer-than-average December.
The Met Office has said that the UK has been hit with a 'cold plunge of Arctic air', with temperatures across the country dropping to 5°C-6°C lower than normal.
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For drivers all over the country, taking care of your car in the freakishly cold conditions is crucial to keep it from being damaged.
It is important that drivers clear snow from their car windows before setting off to avoid getting a fine, as well as to wait until roads are gritted to reduce chances of losing control while driving.
Grit is essential to stop roads from icing up, but it can be harmful to the exterior of your car once it begins to warm up.
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An expert mechanic has provided tips on how and when to wash grit from your car to avoid damaging it.
Scotty Kilmer has posted a video on TikTok outlining exactly when you should wash your car down following the snowy weather.
He explained: "You need to rinse the salt off your car when they throw it on the road to melt ice.
"But you need to do it when the Sun's shining and it's warming up outside. When it melts, get the old pressure washer."
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Kilmer said this is important as when the ice begins to melt on your car, it mixes with the salt to form an acidic solution that can ruin the body of your car.
The solution can cause scratching and rust, so giving the car a thorough clean helps avoid damaging important components that can permanently hinder performance.
Re-doing the paint job on your car can cost hundreds of pounds, which could all be saved if you stay vigilant.
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Don't worry, if you can't be bothered to get down and dirty with washing your car, there is an easier alternative.
Scotty said that taking your motor to a 'touchless' car wash, where it will be thoroughly rinsed all over and dried using heat lamps, is another option.
An average auto car wash costs £6.30, according to data experts Nimble Fins, which is all it takes to avoid any potential damage that could be cause by grit.
By carrying out one of these methods, you could be preserving your vehicle and saving it from long-term problems.
Joshua Nair