Jack Mitchell

I recently purchased a used 2002 S55 AMG with 23000 kilometers which makes it virtually new. In Canada there is a fair bit of road salt used from December until about March. Given the evils of corrosion, I have decided to garage the car for the winter.

I have a tremendous amount of respect for this vehicle which is why I refuse to abuse it in this way. Am I being overprotective of the investment or am I being a fool for not enjoying this car year round?

On a more personal note: I have driven Volvo’s for most of my life, the longest lived was 19 years before the wrecking yard. Given my personal history then it would be a safe bet that I will keep this car for many, many years. – OR, I might trade this in for a new S55 in about one or two years. This trade up realization should make the car more valuable if I do not winter drive it.

Any thoughts?

Regards, Jack

str8ridin

In my opinion, you may be a little over protective. Your car, as amazing as it is, is not an exotic where those are just required to stay garaged because when selling, small corrosian even in the under carriage can lower the value. However, the average buyer of an S class isn't going to look under the car, let alone even expect a car like that to be garaged.

Now, in snow, I wouldn't recommend driving that car...too much power with rear wheel drive spells 'dangerous'. However, with salt on the roads, a simple power wash underneath the car every other day will keep the salt levels down. And of course a few extra coats of wax before the winter really sets in will help too.

So, I say, you paid for such a beautiful car, then use it! That amazing motor you have will just love the cold air!

EddieGTP

But other cars that slip and slide around in the snow... But any car kept in a garage is no fun.

revstriker

If you can manage to get around in the winter while keeping the S55 in a garage, that would surely be better for the car. Salt and road grime can certainly do damage to a car over time. But if you do decide to drive in these conditions, you have to make sure you wash your car as often as possible, including the underbody. If you are able to do this, then it shouldn't make too much of a difference on your car (not considering the extra miles on your car, or the added risk of getting into an accident).

So my answer is: Yes, it's a good idea, but it's not really necessary, and shouldn't make that much of a difference.

revstriker

The average buyer of an S class, maybe, but I think the average buyer of an AMG version cares a little more.