Rustproofing : A life-long investment

Every fall it's the same story: Rustproofing companies begin an aggressive advertising campaign, corner garages put up signs on the kerb displaying their available rust treatments and we get coupons in the mail and by email. It is a seasonal topic but rust is a year-round issue. Many people are confronted by something they know they should do to protect their car but are often not certain as to what they should do.


Cars and trucks, even if they have received a factory or dealer applied rustproofing treatment, can begin to show important signs of rust after only 5 years. An independent treatment by a specialized outfit is usually the best way to go.

It is true that not everyone should get their vehicle treated. For those that intend on keeping their vehicles for an extended period of time, getting it done will do many things including maintaining a good resale value. Not only that but over a 7 or 8 year span, it could prevent the replacement of parts such as brake lines, electrical connectors and of certain body panels such as lower door seams or rocker panels. On the other hand, those that are leasing for 2 to 4 years and that are not going to buy the car at the end of the contract do not need to bother with the investment.

One of the most common enquiries that consumers have is: When should they get it done? Ideally it should be done when it is warmer outside so it's not necessary to wait until fall like most people do. The reason is simple, the milder temperatures will allow the products to better penetrate the treated areas. The metals will basically soak up the product as it is porous.

Back in my days of consumer counselling, one of the best excuses that was given to consumers for not getting their vehicle treated was that the manufacturer's warranty would be voided. In fact, it will not. The car manufacturer is still responsible for rust problems that would be the result of defective parts or improper assembly; if anything, your rust proofing bills will prove that you have been a vigilant owner. For example, if perforation occurs on the roof, this would be the carmaker's responsibility (since most rust proofing treatments are not applied in this area). On the other hand, if rust were to be found coming from one of the holes drilled by the rust proofing retailer for treatment application, this would classify as the rust retailer's responsibility. Let us not forget that most dealers attempt to sell new car buyers an after-market rustproofing product ...