How Does Rust Form In Your Vehicle And How To Avoid It
Rust is a naturally occurring metallic oxide, which is a usually dark, reddish or brownish substance formed by the interaction of iron and oxygen. It usually happens when metal is introduced to the presence of air or water. Rust can be recognized both visually and by physical examination, and forms under different conditions.
Rust can be very dangerous when it starts to build up in a car because it causes a lot of damage. Here is a basic understanding of how rust forms on a car, and why you should prevent this from happening:
How Does Rust Form In Your Vehicle
Here's how rust forms on your vehicle:
- Rust is a chemical reaction between iron and oxygen, which occurs because iron is less dense than oxygen, which means that it can travel faster through iron. When this happens, the iron oxidizes into rust.
- The rate at which rust forms depends on the amount of exposure of the car to air and water. A car which is always left outside is more likely to develop rust than a car which is parked indoors.
- Rust formation is what causes rust to damage your car's exterior. It can easily ruin the paintwork, which will cause problems down the road. It can also affect the plastic parts of the car such as the bumpers and body panels.
- Rust can also affect the interior of the car, especially its upholstery and carpet. Carpeting with rust stains will need to be replaced. You may notice that when you take your car for a test drive that your seats look worn out and the cushions have become old and wrinkled.
How To Avoid Rust From Forming In Your Vehicle
Check out some ways on how to prevent rust formation in your vehicle below:
1. Rustproof Your Vehicle
One of the easiest ways to prevent rust from forming is to use a good wax or polish, but it's also a good idea to use a sealant. Sealants and polishes, such as POR-15, have a few things in common - they both protect against moisture. They both help to prevent rust and they can also help to improve the appearance of a paint job.
2. Keep Your Interior Clean
To prevent rust forming on your car's interiors, make sure you clean up spills immediately. While it's true that you can use an old rag to wipe down the interior of your car, some of the chemicals found in ordinary rags may cause rust. Instead, opt for a mild detergent that can be used to wash down the inside of your car. Do not use anything too abrasive though - just use a damp cloth to wipe the area down gently and you should be fine.
If you want to keep your car's interiors in good condition, regularly dust it with a cloth and clean it thoroughly before putting any accessories on. You should also check your car's interior often to check for stains and any water damage.
3. Keep Your Vehicle Well-Maintained
Another thing that you can do to prevent rust from forming is to keep the car well-maintained. Regular car maintenance is one of the best ways to keep your car looking great and avoid the damage caused by rust. If you're not sure what to do, always go to a professional car detailing service to help you. In fact, getting a professional car dealer to do the work for you can save you money.
4. Replace Car Covers And Carpet Regularly
It's essential to keep your car's interior dry, especially if you live in a humid area, as moisture can make the rust spread or set in. Carpeting must be replaced regularly. As soon as possible, if the rust has started to form, clean it up as quickly as possible. You can also use the car's original covers if they have a lining on them to protect the interiors.
5. Check Your Tires
It's also important to avoid rust forming around chrome tires. Make sure you regularly check your car's tires for wear and tear and replace them if they start to look worn out. Old tires are dangerous and can cause accidents, so it's best to replace them once you see indicators of damage.
Rust is Preventable
There are many reasons rust forms, but it all boils down to the environment your car is in. The best way to prevent rust in your car is to drive it properly and regularly. Keep both the exteriors and interiors clean. If you see signs of rust formation, clean it up immediately. If the rust cannot be easily removed, get some help from a professional.