When you think of an “old banger” one of the first adjectives that comes to mind is usually “rusty”. But rust isn’t just a problem for ancient, worn-out cars, it can turn a reliable steed into a heap before you know it. In the long term, rust can cause enough damage to bodywork and structural components that it will be prohibitively expensive to repair, making your car a write-off.
Rust is an oxidation process that occurs when iron reacts with water and oxygen to make iron oxide (rust). So, in general terms, the more humid or salty the environment, the more likely your car is to suffer from rust – and the harder you have to work to protect it. It’s not all bad news: as with many age-related issues, it is possible to delay rust with some basic maintenance and a little bit of vigilance.
Regular washing and waxing
A regular wash and wax routine will get rid of the grime and salt that can build up on your car, attracting moisture and keeping it there. Waxing, meanwhile, offers a layer of protection from the elements, which means that water is less likely to be able to sit on vulnerable metal services. In general, aim to wash your car every couple of weeks, and wax it every couple of months; a valeting service will be able to do this for you if you don’t have the driveway space (or inclination) to do it yourself.
Keep an eye out for paint chips and get them fixed properly
Your paintwork is built up of several layers which not only make the car look good, but protect the base metal from corrosion. If you get a scratch or a chip, a dab of touch-up paint topped with a clear sealer might be enough to do the job. For bigger scratches, it is worth going to a body repair specialist to get the job done properly. Not only will a professional repair look better, it will also prevent moisture sitting on the vulnerable exposed metal.
Keep your car dry on the inside
Yes, you read right: moisture inside your car can lead to rust. Internal damp is harder to spot and as water has a habit of getting into the tiniest, hardest-to-reach areas, it can cause rust problems without you noticing. Keep an eye out for leaks, particularly around sunroofs and windows. Use floor mats made of rubber, rather than permeable fabric, as fabric ones can trap moisture in the carpet. Don’t leave wet things (sports kit, umbrellas, coats, etc) in the car longer than necessary, and if your car does feel a bit damp inside, try to open the windows to allow it to dry out.
Keep your car covered
Of course, the best way to prevent rust for as long as possible is to keep your car covered and dry. If it is possible to do so, use a garage or car port. A car cover can help, too.
Was this useful? For more advice, follow us on Facebook or X.