What to look out for when rust proofing your car

Rust proofing is about creating a barrier on vulnerable surfaces of a vehicle to prevent the action of oxygen, moisture and salt leading to corrosion. Rust proofing is most beneficial if your car has been damaged or if it was manufactured prior to the year 2015. Simply washing your car is one of the best ways to prevent rust. So while we aren't advocating rust proofing for every car owner, it is something worth being aware of if you intend driving the same car for around ten years or more. If that is you, then this article will help you understand what is involved and whether this is a job for you or the professionals.

What to look for before rust proofing

All modern cars have access holes already drilled and plugged or unplugged - these are significant in the application of a rust proofing treatment to areas most vulnerable to rust. The onset of rust is not to be dismissed on older car models and classic cars particularly those driven close to coast areas and on roads frequently gritted during the winter months. Knowing what steps to take to rust proof your car can make the treatment far more cost effective.

Application guides for specific car makes and models are available from rust proofing product suppliers. When you order products from the Dinitrol range you will be supplied with the relevant spray diagram showing existing holes, which ones need to be plugged and where you will need to have holes drilled. Rust proofing involves using fluid wax or oil based aerosol applications to get the product to difficult to access areas such as the inside of doors.

Areas of car that need attention when rust proofing 

• Frequent washing of your car is a very important step to rust proofing paying attention to the the areas around the wheel wells and rear bumper which tend to collect salt, sand and grit - combined with moisture they form the perfect ingredient for corrosion.
• Make sure all unplugged drain holes are clear of grit and dirt so any water from rain, puddles or car washing can drain through freely. Use a pressure washer to ensure all holes and sections are free of dirt. Dry thoroughly before applying wax-based rust proofing to seal the inside of the box sections.
• Box sections should also be checked periodically and rust proofing applied.
• Welded seams and crevices - the hidden parts of a car particularly sports car models such as the Mazda MX5 give cars it's strength and rigidity, however they are vulnerable to rust so any rust proofing treatment must be able to flow and creep into these areas. The most effective rust proofing product is an oil based product that will creep into door seams, folds, joints and weld spots where rust often starts. Oil based sprays displace moisture. 
• Other checks areas to look out for rust include the area around light fittings
• Also check steel suspension wishbones and cross-members - all of which have access holes.
• The underside of your car and around the wheel arches - protect the brakes and exhaust system when doing this job. 

DIY rustproofing means you are in control of ensuring the job gets done correctly and to the standard you expect to fully protect your car. However, it is not, as you have probably guessed, a 5 minute job so requires patients and a week-ends worth of effort. Buying the rust proofing products that are easy to apply with as little dripping and mess as possible while giving a most effective protective barrier means a perfect outcome! There are a number of car forums you can access on-line to get feedback and information on products used. As we are the suppliers of the Dinitrol range of rust protection products, we will give you a brief overview of what rust prevention waxes and oil product are available for specific applications.

Dinitrol rust prevention waxes and oils 

• DINITROL 4941, this product has the ability to creep into the small nooks and crannies that the thicker product is not able to. 
• DINITROL 3650 - new metal, heavy duty for high corrosion environments
• DINITROL ML3125 - designed for use on old metal. It penetrates through rust and contains a high level of corrosion inhibitors. A rust prevention fluid for open surfaces as well as for cavities i.e. chassis box sections. It is capable of good penetration into crevices and joints, preventing further corrosion even on damp or dirty surfaces.
• DINITROL 3642W - designed for use on new metal.
• DINITROL 3654 - retreating existing applications
• DINITROL ML - thin, high penetrating - contains high level of corrosion inhibitors
• DINITROL 1000 - old metal, clear, for classic cars
• DINITROL 77B - light brown dries to a harder, thicker film used in areas of high mechanical abrasion

Rustproofing does add longevity to any make or model of vehicle, trailer or heavy vehicle. As a car gets older, it becomes more vulnerable to rust due to stone chips, scratches, environmental conditions and general wear-&-tear. Dinitrol has years of experience as one of the best rustproofing products on the market.

Rust Proof or Rust-in-Peace!