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The arrival of fall gives automobiles a breather from extreme temperatures and other tough conditions. However, the changing season doesn’t mean car owners can take a break from protecting their rides. Autumn brings a new set of challenges, among them rust. This corrosion comes on gently but can advance to the point of costly repairs and decreased vehicle value. Yet, rust doesn’t have to happen. With the right preventative steps, you can protect your car and investment.
Keep reading as we explore why fall promotes rust, review effective rust prevention strategies, and examine how rust impacts different mechanical systems. You’ll also learn how an aftermarket auto warranty, also known as an extended warranty or vehicle service contract (VSC), can protect against seasonal repairs.
For many, fall brings the beauty of changing foliage and crisper air. But these conditions also bring rain, fog, and falling leaves, factors that promote the development of rust. The condensation that easily occurs on cars this time of year is a breeding ground for oxidation. It worsens where road salt is used to treat icy roads.
The chemical process that leads to corrosion is simple but highly destructive. Iron oxide begins forming on the surface when unprotected steel or iron is exposed to oxygen and moisture—this reaction is known as oxidation. Rust is another name for iron oxide. The conductivity of water increases when salt is added to the equation, speeding up the oxidation process.
Well-maintained paint does a good job of protecting the underlying metal, but these safeguards don’t last forever, and many components are unpainted.
Autumn weather conditions make the following areas vulnerable to rust:
To protect your vehicle, rust must be identified before it spreads. Look for:
Be proactive about rust. Catching problems early can minimize damage, save money on repairs, and preserve resale value. Perform a monthly visual inspection to stay ahead of any issues.
Consider a fall car care regime to keep rust at bay. Here’s a multi-step approach:
Regular washing and waxing are essential for minimizing the risk of oxidation. At a minimum, a bi-weekly wash will help remove rust-friendly buildup. Be sure that the undercarriage is thoroughly cleaned as well. If your local car wash doesn’t offer this service, you can buy a small DIY wheeled unit that connects to a hose and rolls under the car. Ideally, waxing should happen quarterly, but even a semi-annual treatment with high-quality wax will create a protective barrier against the elements.
Wipe down your car after rain (or washing), paying attention to crevices and seams where water can gather. A clean microfiber towel is the simplest solution, but a special car air blower can speed up the task. Avoid using a leaf blower without an air filter to prevent fine debris from scratching the paint.
Use a small wire or compressed air canister to clear the drainage holes in the doors, trunk area, cowl (bottom exterior area below the windshield), and sunroof.
If you live in an area with excessive fall rain or extensive use of road salts, apply a rust protection spray on vulnerable areas. It’s a low-cost option to safeguard the undercarriage, wheel wells, door bottoms, rocker panels, and other components from rust development. For best results, look for products with lanolin or other water-displacing compounds.
Modern cars generally don’t need undercoating beyond what came from the factory. However, older vehicles or automobiles that may not have complete undercarriage protection may benefit from a professional undercoating treatment. There are numerous options, ranging from rubberized coatings to wax-based products.
When possible, minimize bad weather exposure by parking in a garage or under a carport. A car cover is another option (use one with adequate air circulation).
Touch up paint chips or scratches to block any openings for oxidation to develop.
A high-quality ceramic coating offers extended paint protection that lasts a few years beyond traditional wax. Ceramic coating also makes washing and waxing easier.
Use rubberized floor mats to prevent water from soaking the carpet and the metal floorboards. It can be challenging to identify rust developing here until it’s too late.
When you understand what repairs cost, preventing rust from developing in the first place makes sense. According to CostHack.com, professional rust restoration work is expensive:
Rust goes beyond cosmetic issues. There are several vehicle systems vulnerable to the effects of oxidation:
Stay ahead of rust-related problems by:
One way to prepare your car for fall is to be better prepared for rust. Another is to add the protection of an aftermarket auto warranty or extended car warranty. It’s peace of mind that comes from knowing many seasonal repairs are covered.
It’s important to note that while an extended car warranty or vehicle service contract doesn’t directly provide for rust-related repairs, this coverage can still be beneficial in rust-prone seasons.
For instance, if a door hinge or lock mechanism fails due to wear or malfunction, an applicable extended warranty would likely cover the repair or replacement of that part, regardless of any rust on the door itself. However, the plan wouldn’t cover the repair of a rusted quarter panel or door, as these are considered cosmetic issues.
Types of repairs that aftermarket warranties often cover include:
While an extended warranty can’t prevent rust, it can protect against breakdowns and surprise repair bills. Endurance offers customizable auto protection plans, ranging from essential powertrain coverage to an exclusionary plan similar to a new car bumper-to-bumper warranty. There are in-between programs that balance protection and price and specialized plans for high-mileage automobiles, commercial-use vehicles, and select luxury models.
All Endurance customers receive access to 24/7 roadside assistance (including towing and lock-out services), the choice of any ASE-certified mechanic or repair facility for covered repairs, and flexible payments. The perks continue with rental car support and trip interruption protection.
Plan holders can also enroll in a year of Elite Benefits. Activate these benefits and receive up to $2,000 in value services like tire repair and replacement, key fob replacement, collision repair discount, and total loss coverage.*
Learn all that an Endurance extended warranty offers. Visit the Endurance online store for instant price and plan details, or request a FREE quote. Call (800) 253-8203 for one-on-one help from Endurance advisor.
Explore the Endurance blog for helpful articles about car maintenance, DIY tips, vehicle reviews, warranty advice, and more.
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By clicking the button, you consent to Endurance using automated technology to call, email, and text you using the contact info above, including your wireless number, if provided, regarding auto protection or, in California, mechanical breakdown insurance. You also agree to the Endurance Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions. Consent is not a condition of purchase, and you can withdraw consent at any time. Message and data rates may apply.
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Dave is an automotive journalist combining a deep passion for cars, hands-on mechanical experience, and dealership insight. His writing primarily focuses on consumer auto advice and enthusiast pieces. A regular contributor to HotCars.com and other leading automotive platforms, Dave earned his BA in Journalism from The George Washington University.