In the 20th century, rustproofing was a tad bit different from what we make it out to be today. Back then, rustproofing wasn’t aimed at rust prevention at all! It was mainly to reduce and lessen the loud noise. However, rustproofing has indeed become a reality for most of us today. Commonly, rustproofing is also known as undercoating. As the very name suggests, the car surfaces are given a coating of rust-proof material before applying the paint. That helps the metal surface last longer and also provides adequate protection.
Now there has been a lot said about how undercoating is a sheer waste of money. But is it? Well, that actually depends on a number of things. Let’s take a look at some of them and a few pros and cons of undercoating:
- Ask yourself a simple question beforehand. Are you planning to lease the car? If yes, how long are you planning to lease it for? If you are planning on leasing it for three to five years, undercoating isn’t all that necessary. Anyway, rust doesn’t begin to show its ugly face until the fifth year. So why would you waste your money on undercoating? However, if you are extra cautious and want your car to run as smoothly as ever, you could get a spray of rust-proof paint from time to time.
- Galvanized steel is mainly used by carmakers to manufacture those specific vulnerable areas of the car like fenders, floors, and doors. When we say galvanized, it means that the metal would be given a coating of zinc. Now while that is absolutely fine, you must remember that this coating of zinc is bound to be lost when car makers weld the metal. So what do you do? Of course, you get it rust-proofed. You don’t want the metal surfaces of your doors and fenders to get corroded, do you? Hence, the need for auto undercoating.
- If you are planning to go for rustproofing, there is one thing you need to remember. Most of these companies provide you with a lifetime guarantee. However, like everything else, they come with limitations and conditions. To ensure that your car is in top-notch condition, you will have to get your car checked at regular intervals. You will also have to get it cleaned and washed to ensure that dirt isn’t accumulating in unsuspecting areas. If you fail to get your cars checked from time to time, that could nullify the lifetime warranty.
So you see, car undercoating isn’t as simple as it seems. There is a lot more to it than meets the eye. It would be advisable to analyze each little aspect before you actually take the plunge.