The Top Ways to Protect Your Car or Truck from Rust

Posted by at 27 August 2015, at 18 : 49 PM

The Top Ways to Protect Your Car or Truck from Rust

If you are driving a new car or truck, chances are that rust is not something you have given much thought to. However, exposing a vehicle to harsh environments can cause rust to form very quickly, and unsightly rust is one of the few problems that can really take away from the resale value of your car. No matter how new your car is, it’s never too early to start thinking about protecting it from oxidation and rust. So we’ve put together a list of tips that you can start using today.

What is Rust?

Before you begin, it’s important to understand exactly what rust is in order to be able to tackle it. You’ll probably vaguely remember learning about iron oxide in chemistry class, the product of iron and water when oxygen is present. As the reaction progresses, the iron becomes consumed resulting in the appearance of rust and a small amount of hydrogen.

Although cars are painted in order to seal off the oxygen and moisture to protect them from rust, improper care can still put your car in risk of some deterioration.

Store Indoors

Although this isn’t a doable option for everybody, if you have access to a garage, storing your car or truck indoors is one of the best ways to protect it against rust. As the paint of your car can be weakened over time by exposure to sun, rain, and extreme changes in temperature, keeping it indoors is one of the most effective ways to protect it from rust.

Keep it Clean

The weather isn’t the only factor that can make your car more susceptible to rust, as failing to keep it clean can also put it on the fast track to rusting. Dirt collects in the nooks and crannies of your car as you are driving, and moisture will tend to follow in any place where dirt resides. This will eventually wear down the paint of your car to the bare metal, and from there it won’t take long for rust to do its worst. Keeping your car or truck in good condition by cleaning it at least once a month and adding features such as a truck bed liner is an effective way to shield its bodywork from rust.

Get a Wax

Generally speaking, protecting the paintwork of your car or truck is an effective way to guard it from rust. At least once a year you should take the time to apply a reliable protective wax to your car or truck. Most waxes will protect your car or truck from harmful UV rays which prevents paintwork from cracking, therefore protecting against rust. There are a variety of good spray-on wax options available, however, the best option to protect from rust is often a liquid or paste wax. You should always follow the instructions carefully when waxing your car or truck.

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