Stop Vehicle Rust in Its Tracks

Rust. It’s one of those things that often sneaks up on you and starts colonizing your car before you even realize it’s a problem you need to turn your attention to, right? One minute your car is perfectly glossy and showroom shiny, and the next, it’s covered in patches of orange brown stuff that not only makes it look bad, but which can also start to affect your vehicle’s performance, and not in a good way. But you know what? It doesn’t have to be like that. It is possible to stop rust in its tracks, sometimes before it’s even started, and doing so is easier than you think. You just have to be prepared to give your car some TLC.

Sound good? Read on for some rust stopping tips you need to know.

Wash Your Car Like You Mean It

It sounds obvious, but regular washing is your first line of defense, especially in winter when roads are slathered in salt. That stuff may keep the roads drivable, but it’s like a death sentence for your undercarriage. Don’t just hit the body; get under there with a power wash (or a strong hose if you’re DIY-ing it). Dirt and grime trap moisture, which is basically a welcome mat for rust.

Dry It Off, Too (Yes, Really)

We’re not saying you need to hand-dry your car with a microfiber towel every time it gets a splash of rain, but letting water sit for too long? Big no-no. Especially in hidden crevices and corners. Give it a good shake-down after a wash or rainy day drive. Your future rust-free self will thank you.

Inspect Often

Get into the habit of playing Sherlock Holmes with your car. Check under the wheel wells, door frames, around the trunk, and especially the underbody. Catching rust early means it can usually be scrubbed away or treated before it turns into a full-blown crisis. A tiny bubble in the paint? Investigate it. That weird brown patch? Don’t ignore it because you know what? It won’t go away on its own.

Use a Rust-Proofing Spray or Sealant

There are loads of rust inhibitors out there, and many are surprisingly easy to apply yourself. Spray-on treatments create a barrier between your car and the elements, locking out moisture like a waterproof jacket. And for trucks or SUVs, the best spray on bed liner can help protect the cargo area, which often takes a beating, from rust, scratches, and general wear and tear. Bonus: it also looks pretty tough.

Don’t Skip the Wax

Waxing isn’t just about making your car look shiny (though that part is nice). It adds a layer of protection against water and grime. A good wax job lasts a few months and gives your paint job some much-needed armor. Treat it like skincare for your car. SPF? Nah – just wax.

Fix Chips Fast

Tiny chip in the paint? That’s a future rust party waiting to happen. Keep a touch-up paint pen in your garage and fix those nicks as soon as they show up. It’s like putting a plaster on a paper cut – small action, big payoff.

Rust is sneaky, so you need to be sneakier, and now armed with these rust-stopping tips, you can be!