The alternative to an oil-based rustproofing treatment is one that is grease-based. This treatment offers excellent protection. The compromises are few and far between, and most experts agree that this is the best way to protect the large investment that are our cars.

This expensive option is best suited to those interested in holding on to their car for 10 years or more. As grease does not run as oil does, the application process becomes far more important in the efficient battle against rust. Many shops remove interior door panels, strip the trunk and even pull back carpets to maximize the effectiveness of the product.

To give you an idea, a complete application process can require up to five hours and so, for many, waiting for the car no longer becomes possible. The up-side is, as the grease adheres to surfaces far better than oil, reapplications or touch-ups are only necessary every two or three years and take far less time.


No holes are made in the body, either. Should your car already have drilled holes, the shop will use these access points to inject the product. Much like with oil, make sure you check the door drains on occasion as they can become clogged.

Costs for this rustproofing option are the greatest obstacle for this service. Getting a car treated can set you back $400 to $500, and if you own a CUV or a minivan the amount can climb to $700. However, if you figure that an annual lube job retails for $80 on average, it all evens out over 10 years if touch-up costs (about $100) are included.

Here, as with oil-based, there's another variant to this quasi-permanent type of protection. It consists of wax (also known as paraffin and sealant) and it hardens almost on contact as it is being applied. As with the grease-based business, it requires the occasional touch-up. What's more, as this rustproofing treatment creates a barrier between steel and the elements, the vehicle must be as new (read: clean) as possible. Some shops actually refuse to apply the wax on any car over 12 months old. If they do, they actually cut the warranty in half or more. This is no less expensive than grease as costs range from $250 to $500.

For recommendations as to where people should go for rustproofing, you may contact the Automobile Protection Association as they have specific tried, tested and true recommendations. You can contact them by visiting their website at (www.apa.ca) or by calling them at 514-272-5555.