How to Rust-proof Your Car for the Salty Winter Roads
It’s that time of year again. The roads are saltier than a bag of chips, and the weather can’t seem to decide which way it wants to go.
All the dirt, rocks, salt, and ice can wreak havoc on your car, making the conditions ideal for rust to form. We’ve got some info for you to help rust-proof your car this winter.
Why Does Rust Form?
Rust is a chemical reaction that needs three things to form: bare metal, oxygen, and water. When these three things come together, rust will start to form, and it’s exacerbated by salt.
Salty meting slush from the roads on the bare metal of your car means rust has the perfect place to form.
Why Should I Rust Proof?
A tiny rust spot here and there on the body of your vehicle might not seem like a big deal, but because rust can often form in places you can’t see before it gets to where you can, it can be a big problem before you realize it.
Extensive rust can cause mechanical and electrical failure, which is far more costly to deal with than just going ahead and rust-proofing your car. Be proactive now and avoid the repair bill in the future.
Is My Car Safe From Rust In The Garage?
Sadly, it doesn’t matter if your car is inside or outside, or whether your garage is heated or not. In fact, the humidity from a heated garage can actually quicken the formation of rust.
Should a Used Car be Rust-Proofed?
Absolutely! If you plan on keeping it for the long-term, you’ll want to do what you need to keep it in good running condition.
And even if you don’t plan on having it for a long time, you’ll likely be able to sell it for more if it doesn’t have extensive rust damage. It’s definitely worth it no matter what your plans for it are.
When Should I Do It?
The ideal time to do rustproofing is when the weather is warm, like in the spring or summer. Unfortunately, that’s several months away, so what can you do in the meantime?
What To Do Now
Wash Your Car
Most of us tend to leave our vehicles nice and dirty through the winter, because it’s just going to get gross again once you drive on the highway, so why bother?
Washing your car will help get all the salt, dirt, sap, and other outdoor grime off your vehicle that, while clinging to the surface, will start to eat away at the finish and leave your car vulnerable to rust. Try and get your car power washed at least twice a month to get all the build-up off it.
Wax On, Not Off
Once your car is washed and sparkling clean, give it a good coating of polymer wax and seal it to the body surface, this will add an extra layer of protection from the elements.
Use a Prevention Spray
Rust prevention sprays can be applied to the battery terminals, engine, wheel wells, chassis, and luggage rack to keep rust from forming in those areas.
In Conclusion
If you want to make sure your car is running safely and effectively for the long term, rust-proofing is just one of the few proactive measures you can take. If you take care of your vehicle, it will take care of you.
In the market for a new-to-you car? We at JustCar can help you find the right vehicle that fits your needs and budget. Visit the shop, find the car of your dreams, and we’ll get you on your way to a new ride!
