Rust not only ruins the appearance of your vehicle but can also weaken its structural integrity and lower its resale value. Rust remains a persistent threat regardless of how meticulous your maintenance routine is. Your car is more likely to rust if you live in humid climates, coastal areas with salty air, or regions where roads are treated with salt during winter.
However, you can fight back with preventative measures, such as rust prevention sprays. But first, you need to know what to look for. Here are some common rust-prone areas on cars that every vehicle owner should be aware of.
Wheel Wells
The wheel wells see constant exposure to water, road salt, and mud. When you kick off your drive during the rainy season or in snowy conditions, these corrosive materials splash up into the wheel arches.
Since moisture tends to linger in these areas, the metal beneath the surface becomes an easy target for rust. Additionally, flying dirt and debris continually chip away at the protective paint, speeding up the corrosion process.
To check for rust in your wheel wells, run your fingers along the edges and inspect for any flaky texture or discoloration resembling orange or brown patches. Pay particular attention to areas that appear dull, uneven, or have bubbling paint since it might indicate rust forming underneath the surface. Don’t forget to crouch down and inspect underneath the wheel arches for more hidden spots prone to corrosion.
Undercarriage
The undercarriage of your car deals with some of the most brutal conditions imaginable. Salt, water, mud, gravel, and road grime all collect here, creating the perfect environment for rust.
While the rest of your car dries quickly, your undercarriage stays damp much longer due to poor airflow underneath your vehicle. Over time, the accumulation of grime combined with constant exposure to moisture can lead to extensive corrosion.
Inspecting the undercarriage requires getting under the car yourself with a flashlight or using a lift at a professional garage. Focus on the frame, exhaust system, and any brackets or connections, as these are areas most susceptible to rust. Check for discoloration, rough textures, or brittle-looking metal underneath the car.
Fenders
Your car’s fenders take plenty of abuse from debris kicked up by the tires. Gravel, tiny stones, and road salt constantly hit these panels, chipping away at the protective paint over time. These small chips expose the metal underneath to moisture, setting the stage for rust to form.
Since fenders stick out slightly from the car's main body, they are also more likely to trap moisture for extended periods after rain or washing.
To check your fenders, carefully inspect the areas right above your tires and along the curves. Look for paint that’s been scratched or chipped and any bubbling that could suggest rust beneath the surface. Run your fingertips along the fender edges to detect rough patches you may not see easily.
Door Edges and Hinges
The edges of your car doors and their hinges are some of your vehicle's most heavily used and exposed areas. With constant friction and wear, these areas are especially prone to damage over time. Each time a door closes, small abrasions can occur in the paint along the edges, creating microscopic scratches where rust can begin to form. The problem worsens in rainy or humid climates, where these vulnerable areas rarely stay completely dry.
To check for rust, open each car door and carefully inspect the edges. Pay close attention to the lower part of the door, where water settles, leaving behind residues that can corrode the metal.
Don’t forget to check the hinges as well. Watch for signs of discoloration, flakiness, or rough texture, as these could indicate rust starting to form. Examine the surrounding areas for any signs of chipping paint or bubbling, which can also be early warning signs of rust.
Rear Quarter Panel
The curved panels behind your rear wheels endure constant splashes of water, mud, and road salt. The accumulated debris and grime often go unnoticed here, making rust a common problem. Even tiny, barely noticeable panel gaps can trap enough moisture to start the corrosion process.
To check your quarter panels for rust, crouch behind your car and examine the area close to the wheel arches. Look for any bubbling paint or patches that appear uneven.
A flashlight can help you inspect harder-to-see areas. Pay close attention to tiny crevices where dirt and water can accumulate without drying thoroughly.
Hood
The hood of your car is exposed to all kinds of environmental factors, from rain and snow to tree sap and bird droppings. It’s the part of the car that debris constantly pelts as you drive, which can chip the paint and expose the metal to moisture.
Each small paint chip creates a potential starting point for rust. The problem compounds underneath your hood, where the engine heat combines with fluid leaks and condensation to create uniquely aggressive corrosion conditions.
When checking for rust on the hood, examine both the outer surface and the underside. Inspect the leading edge where paint chips are more likely to occur. Open the hood and look near joints and folds where water might collect. Address small rust spots immediately to prevent them from spreading across the hood.
Windshield Edges
Windshield edges are usually overlooked during routine maintenance but can be a prime area for rust to develop. The narrow channel between the glass and the car’s body collects water and traps debris that most car washes can’t flush out. If the seal around the windshield is damaged or begins to deteriorate, moisture can seep through, creating the perfect environment for rust to form along the edges.
Inspect your windshield perimeter by running a finger along the rubber seal, feeling for any cracks or separations. Look for bubbling paint or discoloration along the edges, as these are early signs of corrosion. If your windshield has been replaced recently, ensure the installation was done properly, as improper sealing can increase the risk of rust in this area.
Prevent Rust Before It Starts
Now that you know the most common rust-prone areas on cars and what to look for, you’re ready to take preventative action. Catching and addressing potential problems early saves your vehicle’s appearance and prevents costly structural repairs in the future.
At Eagle National Supply, we stock everything you need to keep rust away from your car, including car rust prevention paint to help keep your vehicle in pristine condition. Contact us today and let our team recommend the perfect rust-fighting products for your specific vehicle and driving conditions. Your car deserves protection before the rust takes over, not after the damage has already begun.