Rust can sneak up on you and cause more significant problems. While most issues are primarily cosmetic, a small chip can be the downfall of a great paint job. No matter how new your vehicle is, rust damage can make your car look like it’s fresh out of the junkyard when you want it looking fresh off the showroom floor.

How Rust Happens

Avoiding rust seems so simple, but you need to know how it can appear on your vehicle. There are many factors at play, but some of the most common causes include:

1. A small chip: A rock may hit your car on the freeway. Maybe you somehow scrape the side of your vehicle a bit in a parking lot. If the paint is gone, that chip can grow and build up surface rust. Soon, you’ll get bubbles of color, and you will lose many colors if it’s not repaired.
2. Road salt: Salt and other debris on the road can become trapped in your vehicle’s undercarriage, causing rust that can spread. The undercarriage is essential to keep clean for a variety of reasons. Preventing rust is one.
3. Rust from the inside out: There are many crevices in your car, like rocker panels on the door. Rust can creep in and start damaging your car from the inside out.

Preventing and Treating Rust

The good news is that despite all the ways rust can sneak into your vehicle, there are ways to prevent it.

• Wash your car: Many people forget this chore in winter, when it’s colder, and washing doesn’t seem very useful. Even though the weather might soon take its toll, it’s still beneficial to clean your car at least once a week. Wait for a sunnier day, and make sure to visit a car wash that includes undercarriage cleaning.
• Repair scratches immediately: If you get a small scratch, head to an auto repair store for some touch-up paint. Addressing minor issues will prevent larger ones later.
• Add wax: Not only does wax make your car look good, but it also adds another layer of protection to the paint, so rocks and other debris that might cause chips will have a harder time getting through.
• Seal the undercarriage: Many dealers will offer an undercoating option at purchase. This means they will spray the undercarriage of your vehicle to ensure it’s ultimately rust-proof. If you didn’t have this done at the time, you could still get it done on your own. It should be done every 5 to 10 years if you’re planning to keep your vehicle.

Rust Repairs

As mentioned above, unchecked rust can lead to cosmetic damage and expensive repairs if you need your car to look good. Regular maintenance helps prevent more significant issues down the road. Standard rust issues are considered normal wear and tear, and taking care of those repairs yourself can prevent a larger repair later.

We Have a Plan

We’re working hard to keep America on the road and offer peace of mind amidst everything going on. If you’re a current customer and facing financial hardship, we have relief options available. Contact us to learn how we’re keeping your vehicle protection plan active during this uncertain time.

If you don’t have auto protection from Endurance, now is the time to prepare for the unexpected. We have limited time relief plans available. You can request a no-obligation quote or call (800) 253-8203 to learn about your options. When it comes to car maintenance, there’s a lot to think about, and we’re here to help.