just an update on my earlier post about my dd with a lot of paint missing from the fender arch due to tires rubbing.
the last time i washed the car was thanksgiving and it's been douced with snow and salt all this time. i took a look a few days ago and there is some surface rust but everything is in great condition considering metal showing through.
so yes, it's a good idea to keep it clean and well touched up, but not something that you would have to worry about unless you dont wash your car at all for a very long time.