Everything You Need to Know about Automotive Rust in Phoenix

Rust is the enemy of your vehicle. It won’t just make your exterior look bad; it can actually cause damage to the structural integrity of your car’s frame or even its engine parts. You could be driving down the road and a fender could fall off because it’s been eaten through by rust, or your engine could stop working properly because certain parts are impaired by rust.

A rust-prevention plan should be part of your regular auto maintenance. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself talking to your mechanic about some hefty repair bills. Here are a few things you can do to manage the risk of rust in Phoenix:

Get a Rust-Proof Coating

When you buy a new car, you can ask to have a rust-proof coating applied to the paint. It will protect the paint against salt, rain, and other elements, and the paint and the coating will work together to protect the frame against rust.

Do not attempt to get a rust-proof coating on a used car. There may already be rust in the frame, and you will only cover it, which will not fix it.

Protect the Exterior

There are many things you can do to protect the exterior and reduce the risk of rust. Park your car in the shade to protect it from the damaging effects of UV rays. Wash it regularly to keep off salt and other corrosive elements. Wax it regularly to keep a protective coating on it.

All of these things will reduce the impact of corrosive elements that can make the frame vulnerable to rust.

Keep Drain Holes Clear

Your vehicle likely has drain holes around the edges of the hood and trunk. These allow water that accumulates there to pass through and away from the frame of your car or your engine parts. If these holes become clogged, water can get where you don’t want it to be, encouraging the spread of rust.

Protect the Interior

Rust can start from the inside of your vehicle, as well. Keep your interior clean, and make sure there are no leaks letting water inside. Pay close attention to any exposed metal areas.

Check for holes, cracks, tears or other openings in the upholstery or paneling that could allow water to penetrate to the metal frame inside. Take action immediately to have these defects repaired by your Phoenix automotive repair technician to reduce the risk of future damage.

Rust may seem like a simple aesthetic issue, but it is much more insidious. If rust has penetrated your engine or other mechanical parts, Scottsdale Muffler and Automotive can help you. Our expert Phoenix mechanics will skillfully repair your car and get out all the rust. We also offer ongoing auto maintenance that can prevent the formation of rust and that can identify rust in its earliest stages, before it has a chance to cause real damage. Make an appointment with a mechanic on our team today to get a thorough inspection of your car or to perform maintenance or repairs.