Over time, cars are susceptible to rust and corrosion, especially in harsh weather and on areas consistently exposed to moisture or road salt, such as the undercarriage and wheel wells. While manufacturers constantly strive to improve their anti-corrosion technologies, and most factory-issued warranties include anti-corrosion protection, you can still take proactive steps to prevent rust.
Review this informational overview from Byers Collision Center to learn about the types of rust you may encounter, from scale rust to severe rust, as well as some tips and tricks on vehicle rust prevention. Afterward, contact us or visit our service center to learn more.
Surface rust is the least damaging of all rust types and can quickly and easily be addressed as long as you catch it in time. Penetrating rust, on the other hand, is the most severe stage of rust damage and occurs when surface rust is ignored for too long. Let’s review each level of severity in detail and discuss vehicle rust-prevention methods.
Surface rust can take hold if your vehicle received some surface-level damage that scraped off its protective coating. This could easily happen as you drive on a gravel road in New Albany, for example, or on one that was heavily salted in anticipation of inclement weather. The damaged surfaces, now missing their coating and susceptible to moisture, can quickly oxidize and form iron oxide (rust). Fortunately, the damage is still quite superficial at this stage, and you can remove the rust by rubbing it with fine-grit sandpaper until the bare metal is exposed. Afterward, apply automotive primer, then a few coats of paint that match your exterior, and buff it to complete the job.
Scale rust is the next stage of rust damage, and it happens if you ignore those gravel-induced dings and scrapes. Moisture continues to promote rust formation in those areas, eventually leading to a blistered or bubbled paint surface. You may also notice pitting, a highly localized form of rusting that can lead to deep cavities. This is a sure sign that scale rust has taken hold and that you now need more expensive repairs. You may need a full part or panel replacement, along with the specialized skills and labor required. If you see scale rust on your vehicle, call us at %%di_phone_number%% and schedule a service appointment with Byers Collision Center right away.
Penetrating rust is the most severe form of rust damage. Also known as “rot,” at this point, both surface and scale rust have been ignored for too long, and rust damage has reached the vehicle’s structure. Who knew driving down a gravel path could be so damaging? Pitting is severe at this point, and you may even see parts start to fall off the car as structurally critical components begin to fail. If possible, the affected area may be cut out and replaced with a new piece, but extensive bodywork is practically guaranteed in your future at this point.
From regularly washing the exterior to waxing, there are several precautions you can take to prevent rust buildup on your car. Let’s review a few of them here:
The best way to prevent rust corrosion is to prevent it from taking hold in the first place. To that end, one of the easiest and most cost-effective prevention methods is to simply wash your car regularly. This will remove grime that holds onto moisture, as well as salt that creates corrosive electrolytes when it comes into contact with moisture. Getting your car washed regularly will also thoroughly clean the undercarriage and hard-to-reach crevices and joints where moisture and salt can easily accumulate. You can also apply WD40 to hard-to-reach areas to deter moisture buildup, but this is a relatively short-term countermeasure.
You can also apply a layer of wax to protect the exterior of your vehicle, though it will only provide temporary protection against the elements, not against physical damage. If you need protection against physical damage, such as flying debris or gravel, consider getting paint protection film (PPF) applied to the exterior of your car at our service center near Pickerington. This will provide long-term protection against dings, nicks, and scratches, and you can even apply an additional layer of PPF-safe wax for additional coverage.
Finally, you should keep your car dry. For example, if you live in a humid area and you have a garage, park your car inside and consider employing a dehumidifier to regulate moisture levels. If you live in a snowy, cold area and just drove on heavily salted roads, give your car a quick rinse with a hose when you get back home to wash off any salt (prioritize the undercarriage), then park it in your garage so it can dry.
The best way to avoid rust buildup is to make sure it never takes hold in the first place, and the best way to address existing rust buildup is to tackle it as quickly as possible.
If you notice any dents, scratches, or corrosion, bring your car to our dealership near Gahanna for an immediate inspection. The talented service professionals of our Columbus service center are ready to assist you.
