Why regular car cleaning helps with rust proofing

Rust proofing becomes of greater importance as cars age. The steps you take to protect your vehicle’s paint finish can go a long way to extend it's life and value. The first step in general auto care is how we go about washing our vehicle and how frequently we do so. Many vehicle owners opt for the convenience of a Car Wash facility or a Car Valet service, but for the remainder they wash their cars themselves - the DIY method! Of those who wash their own vehicles, it is believed that a third use dish washing liquid or other household cleaning products to do the job. 

Using household cleaning products will strip away any wax protective coating and may damage the vehicle’s finish as can also happen with frequent use of car wash facilities which use roller brushes. The best way to keep your cars finish smooth and shining is to wash it, in a shaded area, using soap and a mitt or soft brush specifically made for washing cars.

Once you have washed your car, use a hose to rinse the soap off thoroughly ensuring no residue is left behind. Dry off with a clean water absorbent cloth designed specifically for the job. By drying your car gives your it added protection against corrosion but also adds to your it's visual appeal. 

DIY washing has it's merits because it gives you the opportunity to scrutinize the body of your car. The onset of rust can start if there are any undetected minor scratches or stone chips on the exterior body. Contact with moisture will, over time lead to corrosion.

Applying a wax coating to the exterior surfaces a few times a year will protect the surface by repelling water and dirt away making it easier to keep your vehicle clean and shiny.

The part of a vehicle, which doesn’t always get the same amount of loving care as the exterior, is the undercarriage and wheel wells. They also need to be kept clean and free of debris. If you are concerned about corrosion to this part of your vehicle, consider having it professionally undercoated with a  rust protection wax.

Making the time to take the necessary steps to care for your vehicle, keeping it clean and applying rust protection to both the exterior and undercarriage are positive 'moves' to keep it going as a long term investment. 

If you want to prevent corrosion to your vehicle, I have listed five popular DINITROL products that have earned lots of positive reviews based on ease of application and effectiveness keeping rust out. In addition, here is a video on how to use and apply these products.

DINITROL rust protection products

• DINITROL 4941 - black, tough, elastic and waxy film

• DINITROL 4942 - brown, tough, elastic and waxy film

• DINITROL 4942M - brown, tough, elastic and waxy film with higher solid content - lower VOC

• DINITROL METALLIC - brown, tough, elastic and waxy film - does not harm rubber or plastics

• DINITROL HP - high performance, clear, allows paint colour to show through

For guidelines on how to apply DINITROL rust protection products >>