Cars are a source of great pride and joy for millions of people worldwide. Not only are they a means of transport, they are invaluable tools for everyday life. Many of us simply could not cope without our vehicles, they are that important to our schedules. Taking care of your car is obviously a priority, we all know how just one small problem can soon escalate and before you know it you’re facing a bill, which you were not prepared for – usually at an extremely inopportune time!
Car care is therefore a high priority for many and rust is one of those little niggling problems which you might not appreciate the severity of until it’s too late. You wouldn’t buy a car which is already rusted, so why let a car you already own get into that state? Above all else, rust is dangerous. It might be ungainly to look at, but the safety risks far outrank any superficial worries you might have.
Don’t Let Rust Rule the Roost
Your car’s paintwork isn’t only there to make it look good – although you most likely picked a colour which is aesthetically pleasing, you wouldn’t want to drive something which is unattractive, after all! It is also the first line of defence in rust protection. Any chips or scratches on your paintwork should not only be treated as a superficial flaw, but also an open invitation for the bare metal to begin oxidization. This can weaken the frame, meaning that any potential accident has just become a lot more hazardous.
The worst time for situations like this to occur is during the harsh winter months, where street grit and freezing climes combined with stones flicking up and scratching the car can lead to the unwanted visitor which is rust. Cars in front are notorious for flicking up small stones which can clip the front of your car as you drive behind them; making stone chips an often unavoidable hazard of driving. If you notice any scratches or chips in the paintwork, it is extremely advisable to address the problem immediately. Catching these problems before the rust has time to fester is key to rust protection and your overall car safety.
Parking Pains
As not everyone has access to their own private garage or indoor parking space, moisture attacks can also lead to harmful rust problems. If you frequently park unprotected from the elements, it is worth regularly checking all potential avenues from which water can access the car – such as sun roof drain channels. Ensuring that every seal is in full working order can save significant amounts of money in the long run, as well as ensuring your own personal safety – there is nothing more important, after all. The underside of your car should never be forgotten. Just because it is out of sight does not mean it should be out of mind! In fact, because it is often unseen, it can become an area which is most susceptible to rust. Mud and dirt holds an excess of moisture which can cause rust to spread at alarming rate, meaning that the undercarriage should be cleaned with regularity. A quick visit to the car wash every month is nothing in the grand scheme of things, especially when placed against personal safety – not to mention the potential repair costs an extreme case of rust build-up could set you back!
Rust can build even in the most unlikely of places – from underneath your car’s carpet to wheel wells – it is imperative that all areas are thoroughly checked. Even things which you might not consider, like getting into the car with soaking wet boots, could lead to rust building underneath the carpet. A brief inspection of your car will most likely save you time and money in the long run, with quick action to any potential trouble spots and prevention obviously preferable to the trouble which will come when rust has further spread. Prevention is always preferable to reaction.
It is always advisable to protect your car against rust. There are numerous ways to combat this problem and tackle rust before it becomes too much of an issue.