How to Protect Your Vehicle from Rust and Corrosion

If you reside in a region where snow and road salts are common, then protecting your car from rust and corrosion can become a real task. Rust is the biggest enemy of your vehicle and can sneak up quickly, but worry not because there are plenty of ways that will help you prevent it. In this blog, we will discuss some of the strategies that will not only keep rust at bay but also keep your car in its best shape. Let us dive in!

5 Ways to protect your vehicle from rust and corrosion:

1. Schedule regular wash and wax

This might sound like a very simple remedy but it is the most effective one. An activity as simple as just washing your vehicle frequently can prevent most of the rust and corrosion. Giving your car a wash removes all the dirt and salt accumulation which turns into rust. Take special care of the undercarriage as dirt down there is often missed and the area gets easily corroded. Make sure to repeat the washing process at least twice a month, especially during harsh winters.
After the wash, it’s a good idea to get your vehicle waxed in order to keep the corrosion away. Waxing provides an extra layer of protection between the exterior of the car and the outer elements. It stops the moisture from soaking in. Repeating this process every few months can help prevent rust and corrosion on your vehicle.

Read: 8 Tips to Wash Your Car in the Winter

2. Examine the damage

One scratch, dent, or chip on your car’s exterior can expose the metal beneath it, making it more prone to rusting. So keep checking for any already existing damage, and if you see any, fix it so that it does not spread. Paint touch-ups and primer help treat scratches and dents.

3. Storage facility matters

The way you store your car has a big impact on how likely it is to corrode. A garage is an excellent place to keep your car safe if you have one accessible. If not, you can also make use of car covers that are specially made to repel moisture. Additionally, try to park your car on a paved or cemented surface rather than grassy ground as it can transfer moisture. All in all, minimizing contact with snow and rain can significantly rust and corrosion.

Read: 5 Best Winter Tires in Ontario

4. Use rustproof treatments

You can use protective coatings and rustproof treatments available in the market for extra care and precaution. There are products such as rubber coatings and oil sprays that can help protect your vehicle from moisture. These products are popular, especially for newly bought cars as they help prevent corrosion early on.

5. Protect the interior of your vehicle

Although the exterior of the car must be protected to prevent rust, the interior is just as important. Moisture can build up in areas inside the car as well. To prevent such a situation, you must ensure that the inside of the car is dry by running the air conditioning with the recirculation mode on to dehumidify the air and using floor mats. Also, keep a lookout for any leaks and accumulations on the sunroof, windows, and air conditioner. A little care goes a long way.

In conclusion, to sustain your car in the long run, protecting it from rust and corrosion is one of the many things you should be serious about. By taking preventive measures and using the aforementioned strategies, you can maintain the longevity of your vehicle.