Drivers planning to make journeys over the weekend have been given a tip that can help them prevent eye-watering repair bills and protect their car's value.

The first weekend of 2025 is set to be a chilly one, with the Met Office issuing both yellow and amber weather warnings for snow across large parts of the country.

As a result, GSF Car Parts has urged all motorists to wash their vehicles regularly in order to avoid long-term damage from the salt and grit on the roads.

Whilst councils cover the road network with salt in a bid to boost road safety, reducing the risk of skiding and long braking distances, the substance can easily cause vehicles to rust.

This is particularly the case for older models that received less rustproofing from their manufacturer or models with damage, such as dents and scratches, that leave the bodywork exposed.

Whilst rust does not form immediately, if it goes untreated it can spread particularly quickly over winter as it is constantly being exposed to oxygen and water.

As a result, motorists who neglect rust may have to spend thousands on a complete vehicle respray or welding and ultimately get less for their vehicle on the used car market.

However, drivers can often avoid rust from forming in the first place by making sure their car is regularly cleaned, with some car washes spraying the underside in addition to the body.

In addition, GSF Car Parts also warned that salt and grit on the roads could have a huge impact on the head and taillights of vehicles during snowy weather.

Particularly common on older vehicles, exposure to salt and grit can cause plastic covers to become cloudy or foggy, resulting in dimmer, unfocused headlights.

Whilst drivers can make their headlight covers clearer with a specialist cleaning kit, the issue can be prevented altogether with regular cleaning over winter months.