How to Protect Your Car From Rust
Rust is one of the critical factors that affect the life and durability of your car, especially if you live in the northern states. Regardless of how much care you take to keep your car in pristine condition, most parts are made of metal and they are susceptible to rusting. To prevent this, a lot of rust protection coatings are provided on modern cars like Honda Pilot. Nevertheless, rust formation depends on the environment, temperature, moisture, and road condition. And continuous exposure to extreme weather can wear these coatings down prematurely. Moreover, rust can affect both the undercarriage and the exterior surfaces ultimately compromising its structural integrity. Fortunately, there are several ways to control rust and delay the inevitable.
First, let’s brush up on how rust is formed. The primary cause of rust is the exposure of metal parts to moisture and oxygen. The impurities found in steel panels make them susceptible to rust. Added rust protection coating can resist rust formation for a while, however, as they age, it can wear off and rust can start forming on susceptible areas like the undercarriage, wheel wells, and more. Cars older than 10 years may not be galvanized, resulting in higher rust formation.
Rust usually forms in different stages and recognizing these will help you determine the best course of action. Surface rust comes first and it usually starts at the dents and scratches on the body. The paint can also bubble up because of rust formation underneath and fall off in some cases. At this stage, most of the rust can be removed through proper treatments and the panels can be saved.
The second stage involves rust scales, where the rusting is deep enough that it flakes off the paint and even the metal surfaces. Treatment at this stage will be a lot more expensive. The panels can still be saved at this stage.
If left untreated, penetrating rust can form, which can go deep into panels and corrode all the internal parts including the frame, making the car unrepairable in some cases. At this stage, the car should be scrapped or replaced as the repair will usually cost more than the car is worth. If you live near a highly corrosive environment, rust is inevitable and can only be slowed down even with the best treatment. It is recommended to rust-proof your car once every two years.
Some of the Best Methods to Protect Your Car From Rust
Washing the Car
First and foremost, the most simple and effective method to avoid rust is washing the car thoroughly at regular intervals. Depending on your usage and climate conditions, some owners will have to wash their cars every week or earlier. As you drive on snowy or damp roads, the dirt and grime can cover up most areas, increasing the rate of corrosion. Washing the car will help remove all this grime, especially on the undercarriage of the car. With no dirt-trapping moisture, the chance of rust forming is lower.
Fix Abrasions and Scratches
Whenever you get a light scratch on the bodywork, the protective coating and paint are damaged. This can cause rust to form on that particular spot and spread further. To avoid this, make sure you cover up the vulnerable metal surfaces as soon as possible. For smaller scratches, a touch-up pen can be used.
Treating Rust Spots
If the scratched surface turns into a rust spot, early intervention can limit the damage. Small rust spots can be sanded off and then painted over for a quick and effective fix. Most rusting starts at the undercarriage, so check near the wheel wells and frame components first.
Using Anti-rust Spray
One of the most effective ways to avoid rust is to treat all surfaces with an anti-rust spray, especially the undercarriage. Cleaning the area thoroughly before applying the spray is mandatory to avoid sealing in moisture and other corrosive materials. Most anti-rust sprays offer protection for up to a year.
Waxing/ Ceramic Coating the Car
Modern wax treatments are effective against rust and also offer several other advantages like protection from light scratches, and sealing the paint surface. It also gives the car a shine, improving its look. Ceramic coating is more expensive in comparison but offers similar advantages. Wax and ceramic coatings can last for quite a while and should be reapplied before every season for effective protection.
Keeping the Car Dry
If possible, park your car under a covered shade, or in a garage. Exposure to elements like rain and snow can accelerate corrosion. Keeping the interior clean will also help avoid rusting from the inside. If you spill water or other drinks inside the car, make sure it’s dried out as soon as possible using a towel. Checking all the drain plugs is also recommended. They can get clogged up sometimes, allowing water to accumulate and thus increasing the chances of rust. These plugs are usually found under the car doors and trunk areas.
