Rust is one of the most persistent problems car owners face. It is unsightly, indicates damage to the car, and can quickly spread throughout the vehicle if not attended to immediately. It can even lead to serious structural damage and render your car unsafe to drive.
The best way to prevent rust from eating away at your car is to detect and address it early. These tips can help you spot rust on your car and prevent it from spreading.
Look for Discoloration
Rust looks like a reddish-brown stain on your vehicle’s paint job. Look for any areas of your car with discolored paint, especially the areas that are constantly exposed to moisture, such as the wheel wells, door sills, and undercarriage. If you notice brown or orange dots, this could be rust starting to form.
Check for Bubbling or Blistering Paint
Rusting metal expands when it corrodes, which can push up against surrounding paint, causing it to bubble or blister. Check door handles, side skirts, and other metal areas for bubbling paint. This is a clear indication that rust is forming below the surface of the paint.
Inspect Flaky Metal
Once rust forms, it eats at metal in deep patches. These spots can lead to the affected area flaking away as the metal beneath visibly erodes. Check for flaky metal in any area that appears to have sustained damage, especially after experiencing a collision.
Check the Rubber Seals
The rubber on your car's doors, windshield, and rear glass can accumulate moisture. Pay attention to rubber seals and air vents around your car's doors. Rust often forms on the inside of these seals and can peel off the paint from the metal underneath.
Use a Flashlight
Sometimes, rust can form in hidden places. Look at difficult-to-see areas of your car, illuminating the parts with the help of a flashlight. Illumination can help you see rust forming in surprising places.
Catching rust early on your car is crucial in preventing it from causing further damage that could compromise your safety. Inspect your vehicle often for any signs of rust, especially before and after winter, where salt and ice can cause the vehicle’s surface to corrode. Pay attention to these steps to help you catch any instances of rusting in their early stages and take the necessary steps to keep your car in good condition. You can keep your car looking good and maintain its resale value.
After learning how to detect rust, upgrade to rust preventive paint from Eagle National Supply. Our high solids paint forms a strong, protective barrier against rust and other corrosive materials. With our multiple color options, you can personalize your car with the perfect shade! Contact us today for more information about how Eagle National Supply can help you protect your car from rust.