How damaging is Chicago (or any other extreme weather places) winter to your car?

Question

I'm talking about rust to any other types of damages you can think of. I'm gonna be moving to Chicago area from southern CA and am bringing my car with me. I just wanna know if it's worth it to buy a winter car that I don't have to worry too much about wear and tear in Chicago winter. My current car is worth about 10k right now. It's been well-maintained but a rear wheel drive (bad in snowy condition). So I'll have to get winter tires for that car if I were to use it in Chicago winter. What do you guys think? Do you have a winter car? Is it worth it?

Answer 1

I know what a winter car is.  Cars in "salt" land are cheaper than where it doesn't snow from Oct to March.  Your car isn't worth a lot, but if it's in really good condition, keep it.  My husband owned a vette and that was his summer car.  He had a Jimmy for rough blizzards.

Have fun, I hate it there.

Texas, Hot and Loving it!

Answer 2

If you can afford a second car go for it. A 4 wheel drive with winter tires (if they are still legal since I lived there)might be a good choice but you still have to have a good simonize wax to prevent rust. You will have to learn how to drive in snow and on ice not that everyone themselves knows how to drive. Which brings me to the unpreventable accidents like sliding on black ice and such which can cause chain reaction of multiple wreaks.You will also need to learn the right things to carry, which will give it more weight in the trunk which is a help for traction. When/if you get to Chi town it might behoove you to contact AAA they should be able to give you all the advice you will need .

Answer 3

The chemicals/salt that is used on the roads is the biggest problem with damaging your vehicle.  Then you have the fender benders due to the bad weather.......

I would seriously consider getting something at least front wheel drive and maybe even all wheel or 4 wheel drive.  And I'd look for something with some ground clearance!  

And I think I'd even consider snow tires  for that one!