The need for rust-proofing your car has declined significantly over the past 20 years. The chemicals that are used on our roads are much more corrosive and there are also huge temperature swings that can result in rust. However, rust-proofing your car is still a great way to protect your car’s body and other important parts.
Undercoating
Aftermarket rustproofing is becoming less necessary for new cars because cars coming off the assembly line already have a high-quality rustproofing system. However, there are still some dealerships that promote this service as a dealer option. According to Mike Quincy, an auto content specialist at Consumer Reports Auto Test Center, new cars leave the factory with rustproofing that is just as good as the rustproofing applied to them during the manufacturing process.
Rustproofing is a popular service offered by many independent auto repair shops and car dealers. It prevents corrosion by repelling moisture and slowing the rusting process. The process typically involves spraying an oily solution on the undercarriage and interior body panels. In addition, some shops also offer undercoating, which involves spraying the car with a black tar-like substance that hardens when dry. Rustproofing may be necessary if your vehicle does not have an adequate level of protection from the factory.
Galvanization
Aftermarket rustproofing on cars isn’t new, but it’s getting a bit outdated. A new coating, called galvanization, helps protect metal components against rust and corrosion. Galvanization is a process that coats steel in zinc. This process typically involves hot dipping components in molten metal, though some parts may be painted with a thin layer of zinc. Some steel is already galvanized when it reaches the factory, but if a component is exposed to the elements, it may need re-galvanization.
Rustproofing isn’t a simple process. Many cars now use galvanized steel in their frames, which is coated with zinc, which reduces the chances of rusting. Modern cars, however, are not built to rust, and their rustproofing needs will depend on climate, terrain, and how much the vehicle is driven.
Aftermarket rustproofing
The aftermarket rustproofing industry is a dying breed. While Sealine products has its place as a useful marketing tool, most rustproofing applications do not offer additional protection. Furthermore, third-party rustproofing is wasteful. Today, carmakers use a variety of tactics to slow down the rusting process. One such tactic is electro deconditioning.
Some car dealers offer this service. But it is not a necessary part of owning a new car. It may even void the factory corrosion-perforation warranty. And some manufacturers have started to enforce this rule by voiding the warranty of rustproofing services.
Cost of rustproofing
When looking for a way to improve the appearance of your vehicle, you might want to consider rustproofing. It’s not a necessity, but the results can be worth the price. Rust-proofing services are usually offered at a fee from a dealership, and you should always ask how much they charge for this service before committing to it. It’s important to remember that the cost of rust-proofing varies greatly depending on your driving habits, the seasons, and the length of time you plan to keep your vehicle. Also, if you plan to sell it in the future, you can use this as proof of your regular rustproofing.
The boom in the aftermarket rustproofing industry was fueled by increased vehicle ownership. This trend began in the 1960s when consumers tended to view cars as big disposable goods. The recession of the 1970s, however, changed consumer perceptions and attitudes. It was estimated that in 1976, a new car buyer was expected to own their car for 3.5 years, but in 1981, that figure had jumped to 5.1 years.