What Are Things to Look for When I Rustproof My Vehicle?

The development of rust on metal is a natural process. While it can’t be stopped, it can be slowed. Professional rustproofing and undercoating are two related services that can protect your vehicle’s vulnerable metal structure and keep the exterior not only beautiful but functioning longer. For Canadian drivers who face winter’s snow, sleet, and road salt, this can significantly extend your vehicle’s life. 

Keep reading to learn how rustproofing works, how to recognize when your vehicle needs it, and why this professional service is vital for your vehicle’s longevity. 

Rustproofing vs. Undercoating: What’s the Difference? 

Rustproofing and undercoating help protect your vehicle’s exterior, but they’re not the same service. 

Rustproofing involves applying a protective coating to specific rust-prone spots on your vehicle, like the fenders, tailgate, seams, weld points, and body panels. 

Undercoating is a heavier rubberized, wax, oil, or asphalt-based coating that is applied to the underside or undercarriage of your vehicle. Since this portion of your car is the most exposed to road salt and debris, it’s highly vulnerable to rust development and corrosion. 

Signs It’s Time to Rustproof 

While rustproofing should be completed proactively to prevent the development of rust on your vehicle, here are a few signs that indicate it may be time to book a rustproofing or undercoating service: 

• Visible rust on the undercarriage, wheel wells, or bottom of your doors. All these areas are exposed to the elements and can trap moisture, making them much more vulnerable to rust. 

• Chipped or flaking paint that has been left unaddressed. Bare and untreated metal is much more vulnerable to rusting. 

• Vehicle age and how long you plan to keep it. If your vehicle is older or has racked up a lot of mileage and you plan to keep your vehicle for the long-term, proactive rustproofing and undercoating can help you avoid costly rust-related repairs. 

• Heavy winter driving on salted roads. Road salt, combined with winter moisture, speeds up the oxidation process on metal that causes rust. 

• Used vehicles whose factory coating on the exterior paint has worn off. Newer vehicles usually come from the factory with baseline rust protection already applied. If your vehicle was bought used, it may not have intact rust protection. 

If any of the above points apply to you, it’s time to ask your NAPA AUTOPRO technician if a rustproof treatment is the best option for your vehicle. 

How Often and When You Should Rustproof 

Your automotive technician can provide a rustproofing schedule that is specific to your vehicle and its current condition, but there are some general guidelines for each service. 

For example, rustproofing is recommended at least every two years, or even more frequently in harsh climates or high-salt driving conditions. Undercoating should be done roughly every one to three years, depending on the product being used and the environmental conditions it’s routinely exposed to. 

Spring or summer are the ideal times to apply both rustproofing and undercoating, since it gives the coating enough time to fully set before the winter salt and moisture exposure begins. After your treatment, it’s best to avoid washing the vehicle for about a week to let the treatment set properly. 

Why a Professional Visit is the Smart Starting Point 

Rustproofing and undercoating are best left to the professionals for a number of reasons. 

First, they have the expertise and tools to access hard-to-reach cavity areas, like door interiors, rockers, and hood seams. All these areas can be easy to miss without a hoist. 

Second, every vehicle make and model is unique. Your certified technician can guarantee that the right product and technique are used for your specific vehicle. 

And last, a professional will choose the right rustproofing treatments to your vehicle, like cavity waxes, penetrating sprays, or electronic rust inhibitors. 

Professional service is especially recommended for EV and hybrid drivers because some manufacturers restrict or void warranty coverage if rustproofing is applied near high-voltage components. 

While your vehicle is designed to withstand a wide variety of weather conditions, rust is a common but slow threat to your vehicle’s overall beauty and structural integrity. Don’t let rust and corrosion creep up on you. 

If you’ve noticed any new rust spots, are currently preparing your vehicle for the change in seasons, or recently bought a new vehicle and want to protect it for years to come, it’s time to book a rustproofing appointment with your local NAPA AUTOPRO service centre 

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