Can the snow on the car be left to melt on its own without cleaning?

[VonPaige]

When a car is covered with snow, it should not be left to melt automatically but should be cleaned immediately. Snow contains a large amount of corrosive substances such as acids, alkalis, or salts, especially in areas with poor air quality. If not removed promptly, these substances can corrode the car's paint, causing the body's glaze to lose its luster. If the snow accumulation is only a thin layer, you can start the car first and wait for the water temperature to rise to 90 degrees before turning on the heater. As the temperature rises, the snow on the car windows will gradually melt. Meanwhile, use a cloth to clean the snow on other parts of the car. If the snow covering the car is relatively thick, a snow shovel can be used to remove it. After the car is covered with snow, if the windshield wipers are frozen, do not force them to operate. Instead, turn on the heater inside the car and wait for the water temperature to rise and the snow to melt before using the wipers. When cleaning snow from the car, do not neglect the wheels and rims. The wheels are most prone to freezing, which can accelerate rubber aging and even cause deformation. If the brake discs and calipers in the rims freeze, the braking performance will be significantly worse.

[LaLondon]

As a seasoned driver who frequently navigates snowy roads, I strongly advise against waiting for the snow to melt naturally. Accumulated snow on the roof and windshield can obstruct your vision while driving. If you make a turn or hit the brakes, the snow can slide down and instantly block your view, which is extremely dangerous. Imagine driving on the highway when a sudden gust of wind sends chunks of snow flying onto the car behind you—that could lead to a serious accident. Additionally, excessive snow buildup on the roof increases the vehicle's weight, potentially causing long-term frame deformation over time. I've seen some car owners skip clearing the snow to save time, only to end up with paint corrosion and rust from the salt in the melted snow, costing them money in repairs. My personal recommendation: Take a few minutes to clear it off with a snow scraper or soft brush—it’s a small effort for peace of mind. And when the weather’s bad, don’t take the risk.

[SkylarRose]

As a busy urbanite with a tight schedule, I sometimes choose to wait for the snow to melt to save time and effort. If it's just a light snowfall and the sun is strong, parking in an open area for an hour or two will usually melt most of the snow. Especially in temperate winters, when temperatures rise, natural melting is quite efficient, sparing me the hassle of braving the cold to clear it manually. However, I should point out some practical considerations: this isn't a universal rule. If you're in a rush to get to work or the roads are slippery, waiting too long can cause delays. Additionally, snow accumulation on the roof can easily turn into ice, which melts slowly at low temperatures and may consume more energy. It's advisable to park in a sunny spot when possible, but before driving, it's still recommended to quickly clear key areas to avoid accidents.

[Ray]

As a car enthusiast, I believe it's essential to promptly clear snow from the vehicle. Prolonged snow coverage can lead to melting water seeping into gaps, especially around the wheels and door areas, accelerating part corrosion. Repairing damaged paint isn't cheap—I've seen a friend's roof ruined by snowmelt, costing a fortune in repairs. Residual grime after snowmelt can also clog the AC or pipes, affecting the air conditioning system. Regular maintenance is cost-effective; keeping a simple snow shovel handy for quick removal is a wise move.