Rust is a common problem for vehicles, especially in Norfolk where we suffer harsh coastal weather conditions, salted roads, and high humidity levels. Untreated areas of rust can eventually weaken the structure of the car, damage its parts, and lower its resale value.
Around April is a great time to undertake rust prevention for your vehicle because it marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. During the Winter months, your vehicle can be exposed to the salt that is frequently used to de-ice roads and which may build up on your car’s undercarriage. Salt is very corrosive and can hasten the formation of rust on your vehicle so it is crucial that you address this damage early on. Check out our list of the best ways to help rust prevention on your vehicle to prevent the damage from forming or spreading, which can prolong the life of your car, avoid costly repairs and help maintain its value.
Wash Your Car Regularly:
Norfolk is the agricultural epicentre of the country and as such our roads suffer from mud that is dragged off of fields as well as other foreign material and dust that makes its way onto the roads. Abrasive, harsh substances can quickly gather on the surface of your vehicle, which may result in minor scratches and corrosion and if not addressed promptly, this minor cosmetic damage can ultimately lead to more serious damage from rust.
Wax Your Car:
Applying a wax finish to your vehicle protects your paint and bodywork from rust formation as the wax produces a shield that covers the exterior, preventing the substances that accumulate from corroding the metal underneath. It’s good practice to apply wax on your vehicle up to 4 times a year, however, some waxes are designed to be applied more frequently than that and this might even include products intended to be applied every few days for individuals who want to preserve the ideal wax finish.
Keep Your Car Dry:
Water is obviously one of the main causes of rust since it penetrates into tiny gaps and cracks in the body of your car, eventually causing rust to grow. Limiting the exposure your vehicle has to water by parking in a garage or under some kind of shelter or a cover overnight can help shield your car from the rain and other sources of moisture, reducing the risk of rust formation. By taking steps to keep your car dry, you can help prolong its lifespan and maintain its appearance over time.
Fix Scratches and Dings:
Scratches and dings can easily develop into more than just cosmetic damage to your car if left untreated as eventually, they can lead to the underlying metal being exposed to moisture, which can lead to rust formation over time. It’s therefore crucial to address these blemishes as soon as possible to prevent moisture from damaging your vehicle. You can ensure that your car remains in excellent shape and preserves its worth over time by acting quickly to fix any damage.
Use Rust Inhibitor:
The use of a rust and corrosion inhibitor spray is one efficient technique to stop rust. To assist prevent rust buildup, you can apply this spray to your car’s underbelly and other exposed surfaces. The treatment of the vehicle’s bodywork creates a protective barrier that can help extend the lifespan of your car and avoid costly repairs down the road. However, rust inhibitor spray should be applied by a professional or trained mechanic to ensure proper coverage and effectiveness, so it’s best to consult a professional to determine the best rust prevention method for your vehicle.
Avoid Driving on Salted Roads:
Although it might not always be feasible, avoiding driving on salted roads can undoubtedly help reduce the likelihood of rust formation. Salt is corrosive and can cause rust to build quickly on your car’s body and undercarriage. But If you can’t avoid driving on salted roads then wash your car as soon as you can after driving to help get rid of any salt residue that may have built up and could later lead to corrosion.
If left untreated rust can seriously harm the body of your car and lower its resale value, but if you stick to these suggestions, you can keep your vehicle from rusting and keep it looking brand-new. Frequent car washes, waxing, and the application of rust inhibitors in addition to repairing dings and scratches are all necessary to stop rust from forming. Keeping your car dry, and avoiding salty roads are also important measures that can help maintain the integrity of the body of your car or van. We hope you found this article to be informative, don’t forget that at EASR Bodyshop, we offer a comprehensive range of paint repairs, paintless dent removal, and other practical treatments to keep your car looking its best.