Why Do Cars No Longer Need Aftermarket Rustproofing?

Every time you go in for a new car, the dealership will often try to include add-on features for the vehicle you’re interested in. One of these may be the rustproofing option, meant to protect the undercarriage from, you guessed it, rusting. However, that option may no longer really be necessary on newer model cars. But why?

When you buy a new car, the dealership will try to add on extra features and services before you finally agree to purchase anything. Among those add-ons is usually a rustproof undercoating of some kind. When iron (which is in steel) and oxygenated air mix with water, rust will occur. This type of corrosion can spread like a rash and eventually shorten the life of your car, as well as lessen the value. Corrosion also happens when dirt and moisture accumulate on the car’s underbody.

Rustproof undercoating is meant to help protect your car from corrosion due to rust and other gunk that can form. However, most modern cars made after 2006 have been made galvanized steel, greatly reducing the risk of rusting. Galvanized steel has a coating of zinc on it, as zinc doesn’t react to oxygen in the same way as iron, allowing for the increased protection. Even the cars body is galvanized, so it’s pretty well protected against rusting.

Even though this newer and more protective method of rustproofing is used in most all vehicles now, it doesn’t mean they’re completely invincible against rust. If something were to happen that would scrap or chip off the zinc layering on the galvanized steel, the metal underneath would be exposed, allowing it to face the risk of rusting.

Fortunately, things like washing your car regularly, especially in inclement weather, can help reduce all sorts of corrosion. Automated car washes clean underneath cars, relieving it of dirt and debris. Applying a ceramic wax on your vehicle, such as this one from Ethos Handcrafted Car Care will offer even more peace of mind that your new car will stay rust-proof. 

Overall, it’s a good idea to skip on the aftermarket rustproofing. More than likely, the treatment won't offer any extra protection. Even third-party rustproofing is a waste for the same reason. The tactics manufacturers use to combat this type of corrosion is all you will need to protect your precious new vehicle and will even extend into the life of a well cared for used car.