Nothing ruins a gorgeous vehicle like unsightly rust spots, but with the right rust prevention techniques, you can keep your car in mint condition for the long haul. The secret to learning how to prevent rust on a car lies in your routine maintenance habits. Preventing rust from occurring in the first place is much more effective than trying to hide corroded spots. Let’s take a closer look at rust prevention:
Inspection
Some areas of the vehicle are a bit more rust-prone than others, but you might miss these hidden areas in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. One of the best ways to prevent rust from spreading is to take a good look at your car, especially during wetter weather in Chicago. Keep an eye out on your:
- Bumpers
- Fenders
- Hood
- Trunk
- Wheel wells
- Underside of the car
Prevention
Washing your vehicle regularly can help rust spots from developing. Why? Abrasive materials and corrosive chemicals can destroy your car’s finish the longer they sit on your car. Maintaining a clean surface will keep your car paint in great shape. Additionally, try waxing your car at least twice per year. This acts as a layer of protection against dirt and debris, while protecting your paint from UV damage and fading color. Some drivers also utilize rust prevention spray for cars to stop corrosion before it even begins.
Repair
Even with the best rust prevention practices, those reddish spots can appear on the most well-maintained of vehicles. So what do you do if you notice a rust spot?
- Use a razor blade or fine-grit sandpaper to very carefully remove the rust.
- Paint on a rust arrestor to prevent the rust from spreading.
- Add a layer of primer once the rust arrestor has dried.
- Apply a layer of touch-up paint.
Not sure how to find your shade of touch-up paint? Check for a paint code near the VIN number of your car door, or just contact us for specific recommendations!
Find Out More with Sunrise Chevrolet!
Located near Carol Stream and Addison, Sunrise Chevrolet is your go-to dealership for quality car care. Stop by to pick up your rust prevention supplies or to get a full detail. Want more car care advice? Learn how to remove stickers from a car!
