How to Clean Your Car to Prevent Rust?

We all know that feeling of stepping into a freshly cleaned car, especially if it has been carefully vacuumed, detailed, and polished. The only thing that compares is getting into a brand-new car, but if you can conduct a thorough cleaning, it may feel the same. But how can you ensure that you have a clean and shiny car, and one free of rust? 

The truth is that older cars are more prone to rust, especially if they are being driven on gravel roads or under off-roading conditions. Typically, most of the rust you may experience from an operating vehicle is surface rust. This can easily be sanded, filled, and sprayed. However, if the vehicle isn’t properly maintained and cared for, these surface rusts can quickly become deeper and require far more attention. 

What causes rust?

There are several forms of rust and varying amounts of rust. Three types of rust are most likely to occur with motor vehicles: 

1. Surface rust - Often experienced when your car’s paint breaks down over time. This is usually caused by prolonged exposure to the sun or mechanical damages that go unfixed, like scratches, scrapes, and dents.
   
   
2. Bubble rust - Surface rust can evolve if left untreated, which usually results in bubble rust. This occurs when the surface rust goes deeper and expands, and then begins to flake, which exposes the metal underneath. Once the metal begins to erode and go even deeper, it will create scales that cause bubble rust.
   
   
3. Corrosion - Corrosion is what happens when bubble rust is left untreated. At this level, the base of the metal will be so badly damaged that it will flake and leave you with holes. At this point, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to do much about the damage, so it’s recommended that you tend to the rust before it gets to this stage.

Luckily, there are some tips, tricks, and tools that you can use to keep your vehicle shiny and rust-free for as long as you have it. 

How to prevent rust on your car

1. Wash your car frequently - This is the easiest way to prevent a buildup of debris, mud, salt, and grime that could lead to paint damage if left unattended.
   
   
2. Wax on, wax off - Waxing adds an extra layer of protection from rust. Waxing twice a year should be sufficient to keep rust-causing moisture at bay.
   
   
3. Use rust preventative coating - The best hack to prevent rust is applying a rust preventative coating. Chassis Saver is amazing at stopping rust permanently without the use of primers or topcoats. 

The recommended way to apply Chassis Saver is by using a low volume, low-pressure spray gun. However, it’s always best to follow the instructions on the packaging to prevent mishaps and misuse.