Everyone dreads the sight of rust on their beloved car. Unfortunately, it’s all too common for rust to creep up on various parts of your vehicle. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the most common places to watch out for rust on your car, helping you take proactive steps to prevent it. Keep an eye on these five rust-prone areas and give your car the TLC it needs.
Wheel Wells and Mudguards
Your wheel wells and mudguards come into constant contact with dirt, moisture, and road salt—all of which can lead to corrosion. It’s essential to regularly clean these areas, especially in winter months when road salt usage increases. Remove any build-up of dirt and grime, and make it a habit to inspect the areas for any signs of rust.
Underbody and Chassis
The underbody and chassis of your car often get overlooked, but they are susceptible to rust due to their close proximity to the ground. Rocks, debris, and moisture can all weaken the protective coating of your car’s underbody, thus making it easier for rust to form. You may wonder if you should get small rust spots on your car fixed. The answer is yes, as catching them early on allows you to take appropriate action.
To help prevent rust on the vehicle’s underbody, give your car a thorough wash—including the underside—at least once a month. Additionally, you can also get a professional undercoating treatment to further protect your car’s underbody.
Door Edges and Frames
Door edges and frames are notorious for accumulating rust, as they are constantly exposed to the elements and often suffer from scratches and chips. Cracked seals and worn weather stripping can allow water to seep in, causing rust to develop behind the paint.
To prevent this, regularly inspect the paint on your door edges for chips or scratches, and promptly treat any damage to prevent moisture from getting in and causing rust.
Trunk and Hood Edges
Much like door edges and frames, your car’s trunk and hood edges can also accumulate rust over time. The seams or seals along these areas can become compromised, allowing water and moisture to seep in, while chipped paint can make these areas prone to rust.
To keep these areas rust-free, regularly inspect and maintain the seals and keep the paint in good condition. Additionally, ensure proper drainage by periodically cleaning out debris from the drainage channels located along the trunk and hood edges.
Exhaust and Muffler
Your car’s exhaust and muffler endure high temperatures and constant exposure to moisture and road salts, making them prime targets for rust. Over time, this can lead to corrosion and potential exhaust leaks, which can be detrimental to your car’s performance.
To prevent rust, have your exhaust system inspected annually for any signs of corrosion or damage. If you live in a high-salt environment, consider upgrading to a stainless-steel exhaust system for added durability.
By staying vigilant and religiously maintaining the most common places to watch out for rust, you can extend the life of your car and maintain its beauty for years to come.
