SYSTEMS
BODY METAL
SAFETY TIPS
PROPER CARELONGEVITY TIPS
- If your new car does not come rustproofed, have it rustproofed shortly after taking possession of it. Rust begins to form immediately after the car is put in use. If the car has been setting on the dealer's lot for a few months, chances are that rust has already begun to form in hidden areas. If some bare metal area can be seen and a light, powdery surface has formed, oxidation has begun and it is too late to rustproof.
- If rustproofing a used car, thoroughly clean all surfaces with a power spray before rustproofing is applied so no contaminants are trapped by the rustproofing job. Rustproof on a warm day so no moisture becomes trapped under the rustproofing and so that it adheres better to the metal.
- Rustproofing is usually more effective at stopping rust than undercoating is. Do not get them confused. Rustproofing is a chemical rust preventative that impedes the rust formation process. It is generally applied on unpainted metal surfaces throughout the car body. Undercoating is a black, tar-like substance that seals surfaces from moisture and deadens sound. It is only applied to the underside of the vehicle but does not flow as well to protect moisture collection points.
- To prevent corrosion from occurring when your car has a salty exterior on a cold day, do not put it in a heated garage; the ice will melt, mix with the road salt, and activate the salt's corrosive properties. Keep your car outside to maintain the water in frozen state and prevent it from mixing with the road salt. Salt needs moisture to create corrosion. Dry salt, in the absence of moisture, will not cause rust. Also, a salty solution begins to evaporate above 40° F. Therefore, road salt does the most damage on a wet car surface at 32-40° F. since the water is neither frozen nor evaporated. Avoid exposing the paint to salt and moisture while at this temperature range.
- Keep your car frequently washed to avoid rust buildup.
- Repair surface rust as soon as possible to prevent the rust from spreading or the metal from deteriorating.
SYSTEMS BODY METAL SAFETY TIPS PROPER CARE