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How To Stop Rust On A Car

Maintaining a rust-free car is essential not just for its aesthetic appeal but also for ensuring its longevity and structural integrity. Rust can significantly degrade a vehicle's health, leading to costly repairs and diminished value. This concern becomes even more pertinent when considering purchasing a second-hand car from colder, wetter countries, where vehicles may be more prone to rust.

If you're fortunate enough to live in a warm, dry climate like California, it's a much easier battle. However, for those of us in the U.K. where the climate is perfect for honing those dark brown patches on your vehicle's bodywork, then this blog will help you.

Understanding Car Rust and Its Causes

Rust is a form of iron oxide that occurs when iron, oxygen, and moisture combine. It can seriously compromise the structural integrity and not just the appearance of a car as rust can make a car fall apart.

As we have discussed before, there are various types of rust, each affecting the car differently. Common causes of rust include environmental factors like humidity and road salt, which can accelerate rust formation, age and driving style. It's also important to know where to look for rust on a car, as some areas are more susceptible than others. Common locations you can check for rust:

  • Wheel Wells and Fenders: These areas are constantly exposed to road debris, water, and salt, making them prime spots for rust development.
  • Undercarriage: The underbody of the car, including the frame, exhaust pipes, and suspension components, is highly susceptible to rust because it's closest to the road and often gets less attention during cleaning.
  • Rocker Panels: Located below the doors on the sides of the car, rocker panels are vulnerable to rust due to their exposure to road spray and debris.
  • Lower Doors and Door Edges: The lower parts of car doors, especially along the edges, can trap moisture and dirt, leading to rust formation.
  • Around the Windshield and Windows: The seals around the windshield and windows can deteriorate over time, allowing water to seep in and cause rust around these areas.
  • Trunk and Hood Edges: The edges of the trunk and hood, where the metal folds, can accumulate moisture and dirt, making them likely spots for rust.
  • Wheel Arches: These areas are highly exposed to water and road salt, especially in regions with snowy conditions

Tips to Prevent Rust on Cars

Regular maintenance is key in preventing rust on your car. Simple steps like washing and waxing your car regularly, especially after exposure to pollutants or road salt, can go a long way using quality products such as Chipex Super Concentrate Car Shampoo. Other tips include applying a coating to the underbody, pressure-washing the underbody, touching up paint chips, using rubber floor mats, and storing your car during winter months.

In fact, for the underneath of the car, I would use an undersealant to prevent corrosion, especially if it's a few years old. Underbody sealant comes in a couple of forms: spray or hand-paint. I prefer the spray as it penetrates more areas than you can get to with a brush, and it's way quicker too. Whichever method you use, it's a very messy job so should you want to keep clean, a garage will usually do it for £100 - £150. Well worth it, but it'll need re-coating every couple of years.

To keep your car's bodywork protected, the best way after washing is to use paintwork sealant and wax. A good sealant will last 6 - 12 months should you use high-quality wax/sealant friendly car shampoo in the meantime, and you can ensure even better longevity by using a spray wax/detailing spray after each wash, plus applying a coat of good car wax every month or two. It sounds a lot of work, but it isn't really, especially considering you're keeping the dreaded rust at bay, and therefore adding value to the car for when it comes to sale time.

However, regular checks can prevent your car from major damage. There are a few signs that your car might be affected by rusting and you should take immediate action:

  • Inconsistent Paintwork: Proper paint application is crucial for rust prevention in cars. Mismatched paint spots or stripes could indicate underlying rust. If these areas are not appropriately repaired or sealed, the rust issue may worsen.
  • Interior Moisture: Regularly inspect for dampness or water damage in the car's interior, such as on carpets, footwells, or in the trunk. This moisture can be a sign of rust on the metal beneath these areas.
  • Exterior Damage: Small nicks and dents on your car's body, if neglected, can become starting points for rust. Promptly addressing these damages can prevent rust from developing.
  • Paint Bubbling: Bubbles beneath the car's paint, often referred to as paint bubbling, indicate that water and air have penetrated between the paint and the panel, leading to rust. This is a sign that immediate action is necessary to address the rusting issue.

Can I Paint Over Rust on My Car?

The answer is yes, however, you should know painting over rust is a temporary fix that does not address the underlying issue. For a lasting solution, proper rust treatment is essential before painting. This ensures that the rust doesn't continue to spread underneath the paint.

When encountering rust spots on your car, it's essential to first assess their size and severity. For small, surface-level rust spots, DIY methods can be quite effective. Products like Chipex touch-up paint are designed for these minor rust issues and can easily restore the appearance of your car's paintwork. However, for larger or more deeply ingrained rust spots, seeking professional assistance is advisable to ensure a complete and lasting repair.

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