Spring Awakening: How to Detail Your Classic Car for the Driving Season

Winter in Indiana is beautiful—until the salt trucks roll out. Road salt and brine may be beneficial for safety, but they’re brutal on vehicles. Corrosion from salt exposure causes thousands of dollars in damage every year: rusted frames, compromised brake lines, underbody rot, and expensive repairs. Many drivers turn to undercoating for protection, but is it the best option? Or is there a better way? In this 2026 guide, we compare traditional undercoating (oil-based, rubberized, wax-based) with Salts Gone™ , the chloride-neutralizing treatment we use at My Baby Detailing | Ceramic Pro Indy. As Central Indiana’s only Ceramic Pro Elite Dealer, we’ve seen both methods in action on everything from daily drivers to luxury exotics and fleet trucks. Here’s the real-world breakdown. The Problem: How Indiana Road Salt Damages Cars Indiana Department of Transportation spreads millions of tons of salt and brine each winter. When mixed with moisture, it accelerates oxidation (rust) on exposed metal. Common trouble spots include: Undercarriage and frame Wheel wells and rockers Brake lines and suspension Exhaust components Traditional undercoating aims to block this, but many drivers discover it can trap salt underneath, leading to hidden rust that’s worse than no protection at all. What Is Traditional Undercoating? Traditional undercoatings are thick, tar-like or oil-based sprays applied to the underbody. Types include: Rubberized/asphalt-based : Thick barrier, often black and sticky. Oil-based/wax-based (e.g., Fluid Film, Woolwax): Penetrating formulas that creep into seams. Pros : Upfront cost is low ($200–$600 for full application). Creates a physical barrier against moisture and debris. Cons : Traps existing salt/brine underneath → hidden corrosion continues. Cracks/peels over time (especially in freeze-thaw cycles). Hard to inspect or reapply. Can attract more dirt and hold moisture. Not ideal on modern vehicles with Ceramic Pro, PPF, or factory coatings (may degrade them). Many owners report rust bubbling through undercoating after 1–3 winters—sometimes worse than untreated cars. What Is Salts Gone™? Salts Gone is a non-hazardous, eco-friendly chloride neutralizer and surface protectant. It’s sprayed on (often during a hand wash or underbody clean), instantly breaks the bond of salt/brine, removes it completely, and leaves a protective film that prevents re-adhesion. How it works : Chelating agents dissolve and neutralize chlorides on contact. Safe on paint, Ceramic Pro coatings, PPF, glass, wheels, and underbody components. No residue or trapping—salt washes away clean. Can be reapplied seasonally (quick spray/rinse). Pros : Removes existing salt instead of covering it. Prevents hidden corrosion. Complements Ceramic Pro ION (our specialty) for full protection. Easy to apply/maintain—no thick buildup. Eco-friendly and biodegradable. Cons : Requires regular application (every few washes in heavy salt season). Not a "set it and forget it" thick barrier like some undercoatings. Head-to-Head Comparison: Salts Gone vs. Traditional Undercoating Feature Traditional Undercoating Salts Gone™ How it works Covers/seals surface Removes/neutralizes salt + adds barrier Handles existing salt Traps it underneath Dissolves and removes it Long-term rust protection Can trap moisture/salt → hidden rust Prevents adhesion → less hidden corrosion Compatibility with coatings May degrade ceramic coatings/PPF Safe & enhances Ceramic Pro Maintenance Difficult to inspect/reapply Easy seasonal spray Cost (initial) $200–$600 full vehicle Lower per application (often bundled with wash) Cost (long-term) Higher if rust forms underneath Lower with prevention Eco-friendliness Varies (some oil-based) Biodegradable, non-hazardous Best for Older trucks/fleets on tight budget Modern cars, luxury/exotics, Ceramic Pro users Real Results from My Baby Detailing We’ve treated hundreds of vehicles in Indiana winters. Here’s what we see: Traditional undercoating : Some older trucks hold up okay, but many develop rust bubbles within 2–3 years (especially on seams/rockers). Salts Gone + Ceramic Pro ION : Vehicles stay cleaner longer, with minimal corrosion even after heavy salt exposure. Luxury clients (Corvettes, Teslas, Panigales) love it—no trapped salt, easy maintenance, and preserved resale value. One example: A 2016 Buick we treated with Salts Gone after one winter showed zero rust progression, while a similar undercoated vehicle had bubbling issues. When to Choose Each Go traditional undercoating if: You have an older work truck, want a thick one-time barrier, and don’t mind potential hidden rust. Choose Salts Gone (our recommendation) if: You drive a modern car, luxury/exotic, or already have Ceramic Pro/PPF. It’s proactive, safe, and works with modern protection systems. The Bottom Line for Indiana Drivers In our salt-heavy winters, removing and preventing salt adhesion beats trapping it. Traditional undercoating has its place, but for most vehicles in 2026, Salts Gone offers better long-term protection—especially when paired with Ceramic Pro ION coatings and PPF. As Indy's ONLY Ceramic Pro Elite Dealer, we combine Salts Gone with premium ION protection and PPF for total winter defense. Your car deserves more than a cover-up—it deserves real prevention. Ready to protect your ride before spring? Book your Salts Gone treatment or full Ceramic Pro package today! Call (317) 360-9222 or message us. Stay rust-free, Indiana.

Uncover the real facts about paint protection film as we separate myth from truth, so you can make a smart choice for protecting your vehicle’s finish.

Discover why professional ceramic coating offers long-lasting paint protection, superior gloss, and easier maintenance for your vehicle’s finish.

Salts Gone Solution: The Ultimate Defense Against Winter Salt Damage Winter in Indiana means one thing for your vehicle: road salt. While it keeps roads safer, it’s a silent killer for your car’s underbody, frame, and components. Salt accelerates corrosion, leading to rust that can cost thousands in repairs or even shorten your vehicle’s life. That’s where Salts Gone comes in. It's a powerful, pH-neutral salt and brine remover that doesn’t just wash salt away; it neutralizes it and leaves a protective barrier. At My Baby Detailing in Greenwood, we’ve seen firsthand how effective Salts Gone is as part of our winter protection services. Here’s why it’s become a go-to solution for keeping vehicles rust-free through the salt season. How Does Salts Gone Work? Salts Gone uses a proprietary chelation process to break the chemical bonds in salt (like NaCl) and brine deposits. Instead of just rinsing salt off, it binds to the salt molecules, separates the elements, and prevents them from reforming or re-adhering. This neutralization stops the corrosion process at the source. After application, Salts Gone leaves behind a thin protective layer that repels future salt and moisture, making it harder for new buildup to stick. It’s safe on all surfaces — paint, metal, rubber, plastic, glass — and is eco-friendly, non-hazardous, and biodegradable. Why Road Salt Is So Destructive? Road salt lowers the freezing point of water, creating a brine that sticks to your vehicle. When combined with moisture and oxygen, it creates the perfect electrolyte for rust (oxidation) to accelerate. The undercarriage, wheel wells, frame rails, exhaust, and suspension components are especially vulnerable because salt hides in crevices and seams where regular washes can’t reach. Without treatment, rust starts small but spreads fast leading to structural damage, safety issues, and big repair bills. Salts Gone stops this cycle by removing existing salt and preventing re-deposition. Key Benefits of Salts Gone for Your Vehicle Removes embedded salt and brine — Even in hard-to-reach areas underbody and in seams. Prevents rust formation — Neutralizes corrosive salts before they cause damage. Leaves a protective barrier — Helps repel future salt and moisture. Safe for all surfaces — No harsh chemicals that strip wax, damage paint, or harm rubber/plastic. Easy application — We spray it on with a pressure washer and under-body trolley to reach every crevice underneath your car, truck, or SUV. Cost-effective — One treatment now can save thousands in rust repairs later. Real-World Use at My Baby Detailing We use Salts Gone as a key step in every wintertime Hand Wash and Exterior Detail . We spray it directly onto the undercarriage, focusing on high-risk areas like the frame, suspension, and exhaust. Customers with trucks, SUVs, and daily drivers love how it leaves the underbody cleaner and better protected than a standard wash alone. One recent client with a Ram truck said: “After last winter’s salt, I was worried about rust starting. The Salts Gone treatment plus our undercoating made a huge difference — no visible corrosion after months of heavy salt exposure.” Is Salts Gone Right for You? If you drive in Indiana (or any salt-belt state), the answer is yes — especially if: You have a newer vehicle you want to keep rust-free You plan to keep your car long-term You want to avoid expensive rust repairs or frame damage Pair It with Full Protection For maximum winter defense, combine Salts Gone with: Ceramic Pro coatings on paint and trim Front-end PPF for rock chip protection  This combo creates a complete shield against salt, grime, and corrosion. Ready to stop winter salt before it destroys your ride? At My Baby Detailing in Greenwood, we offer Salts Gone underbody treatments with every Hand Wash and Exterior Detail throughout winter months. Call 317-360-9222 to book and keep your vehicle rust-free all season long.

Exciting News: My Baby Detailing Becomes an Official Sponsor of IndyHoodRats for 2026! We're thrilled to announce that My Baby Detailing is now an official sponsor of IndyHoodRats — the Midwest's premier automotive event organizations right here in Indianapolis! IndyHoodRats is all about creating safe, family-friendly, inclusive car experiences for enthusiasts of every kind. From massive block parties and cars & coffee gatherings to epic road rallies, trunk-or-treat events, and indoor car shows at venues like the Indiana State Fairgrounds and the old airport parking garage, they bring together trucks, muscle cars, sportscars, classics, luxury rides, motorcycles, and everything in between. Their mission? Deliver octane-fueled fun while promoting responsible, legal automotive culture — no take-overs, no reckless behavior, just pure community vibes. As a Greenwood-based shop specializing in premium detailing , partnering with IndyHoodRats feels like a perfect fit. We see the passion these car lovers pour into their rides every day and we know how important it is to protect that investment from Indiana's harsh winters, road salt, rock chips, UV damage, and everyday wear. Being part of the IndyHoodRats 2026 season means we'll be supporting some of the biggest and best events on the calendar, including: Block Parties (kicking off April 25th at the airport garage!) Cars Night Out events Indoor car shows Road rallies And more family-friendly gatherings throughout the year We'll be on-site at select events, offering consultations, giveaways, special sponsor perks, and showing off real-world examples of our work. This partnership is about more than just business, it's about contributing to the local car community that keeps our shop thriving. We love seeing Hoosiers roll up in their pride-and-joy vehicles, and we're honored to help keep them looking sharp and staying protected for years to come. Stay tuned for more details on where you'll spot us in 2026! Follow IndyHoodRats on Instagram, Facebook , and their website ( IndyHoodRats.com ) for the full event schedule, and keep an eye on our pages for sponsor highlights. Ready to protect your ride before the next cruise-in? Give us a call at 317-360-9222 or book online today. Here's to an epic 2026 season filled with clean, shiny rides and great times!

See how paint protection film helps protect your vehicle’s exterior from road debris, UV exposure, and daily wear while preserving its finish.

Discover how professional ceramic coating protects your car’s paint, boosts shine, and simplifies care with long-lasting gloss and durable defense.

The new year is the perfect time to give your car the care it deserves without lifting a finger yourself. A professionally maintained vehicle looks sharper, stays more comfortable, holds its value longer, and avoids costly repairs down the road. Here are realistic New Year's resolutions centered on handing your car over to the pros at My Baby Detailing in Greenwood, Indiana, so it stays showroom-fresh all year. 1. Resolve to Schedule Regular Professional Washes Commit to dropping your car off every 2 weeks (more often in Indiana winters with road salt and grime). Our expert team removes contaminants that eat paint before they cause damage. (For deep savings and VIP treatment consider our Premium Membership .) See the dramatic difference professional washing makes: We use safe, pH-balanced products and techniques that leave your paint glossy and protected. 2. Upgrade to Long-Lasting Professional Protection Skip the DIY wax kits. This year, let us apply a premium Ceramic Pro ceramic coating or Paint Protection Film (PPF) that repels water, dirt, UV rays, and contaminants for year, not weeks. Our Elite-level Ceramic Pro packages create a deep, hydrophobic shine that makes every wash easier and your car look better longer. 

The holiday season is all about giving thoughtful, meaningful gifts that show you care. While socks, gadgets, and gift cards to big retailers are always safe bets, why not surprise your loved ones with something truly unique and practical this year? A gift card from My Baby Detailing in Greenwood, Indiana, is an exceptional choice that combines luxury, convenience, and genuine appreciation for their prized possession—their vehicle. My Baby Detailing, established in 2021, has quickly become the go-to spot for premium auto care in the area. As Indy's only Ceramic Pro Elite Dealer, they specialize in everything from meticulous interior cleans to stunning ceramic coatings and paint protection film (PPF). Their motto? "Your baby is our baby at My Baby Detailing." Now, imagine gifting that level of expert care! Here are some top reasons why a My Baby Detailing gift card shines brighter than the rest under the Christmas tree: 1. It's Thoughtful and Personal Everyone loves their car (or truck, SUV, or even boat!) and showing you notice how much they care about it hits different. A professional detailing session revives that "new car" feeling, making every drive more enjoyable. It's a gift that says, "I know you love your ride, and I want it to look its absolute best." 2. Practical Luxury They’ll Actually Use Unlike gadgets that gather dust or clothes that might not fit perfectly, a detailing gift card is guaranteed to be redeemed. Winter road salt, holiday travel crumbs, and everyday wear take a toll on vehicles, especially in Indiana. A full detail removes grime, protects the paint, and refreshes the interior, making it a timely post-holiday treat. 3. The Wow Factor: Before-and-After Magic Nothing beats the jaw-dropping transformation of a professionally detailed car. Exteriors gleam with mirror-like shine, while Interiors feel fresh, clean, and odor-free. Recipients will be thrilled every time they hop in their sparkling vehicle, thinking of you fondly. 4. Flexible and Stress-Free for Everyone Gift cards let the recipient choose exactly what they need—whether it's a quick interior refresh, full package detailing, or even advanced services like Ceramic Pro Coating . No guessing sizes or preferences! Plus, it's easy for you: visit My Baby Detailing at 4981 W. Smith Valley Road in Greenwood, Indiana or purchase one online here . 5. It is a Gift Everyone Appreciates One of the challenges of gift-giving is knowing the preferences and desires of the recipient. Do they like this color? Is this the right size? Etc. But with a My Baby Detailing Gift Certificate your worries are over. Anyone with a car, truck, or motorcycle will appreciate a ticket to its enhancement and preservation. Can you really think of anyone who doesn't prefer a clean vehicle to a dirty one? 6. Boosts Vehicle Value and Protection Professional detailing isn't just cosmetic, it preserves the car's finish, prevents wear, and can even increase resale value. In the harsh Midwest winters, it's a smart investment in longevity. This Christmas, skip the ordinary and give the gift of a showroom-ready ride. Head to My Baby Detailing in Greenwood, or click here to purchase gift cards. Your friends and family will thank you every time they turn the key!  7. It Supports Small Business and Your Local Community Many shoppers pay lip service to supporting local small businesses but in the end, they end up buying from Big Box Stores or online retailers. When you purchase a My Baby Detailing Gift Card, you are truly supporting a small business with its roots firmly in the Greenwood, Indiana soil. Our business is locally owned and operated. You are dealing with your friends and neighbors who live beside you in the Center Grove Community of Johnson County. Shop Local.