How do I know if my car needs a corrosion protection coating?

Antikorozinis padengimas
14 March 2025

The protection of a car’s body from corrosion is one of the most important factors ensuring its longevity and safety. Over time, a car’s metal parts are exposed to various external factors – moisture, rain, snow, salt, and dirt. Road salt, especially during winter, is particularly dangerous, as it causes rust to form and spread quickly. Many drivers fail to notice the first signs of corrosion, allowing rust to penetrate deeper into the bodywork and cause serious damage. Timely application of anticorrosion coating protects the vehicle from these issues and ensures a longer lifespan – how can you recognize when a car needs anticorrosion treatment?

Key signs that a car needs anticorrosion coating:

Visible rust spots

One of the most obvious reasons why a car should be protected with anticorrosion coating is the appearance of rust spots. Corrosion often starts from small, barely noticeable marks but can spread quickly and cause serious problems.

Where does rust usually appear?

Rust does not distribute evenly across the entire car body – it mostly accumulates in areas that are frequently exposed to moisture, road salt, and dirt. For example, wheel arches, sills, the underside of the car, and the lower parts of the doors.

Chipped or damaged paint layer

A car’s paint and lacquer layer serves not only an aesthetic function but also a protective one – it acts as a barrier, safeguarding metal parts from moisture, dirt, road salts, and other corrosion-promoting factors. When this layer is damaged, the metal becomes exposed and starts to rust.

Why do cracks in the paint and lacquer create favorable conditions for corrosion?

Paint cracks or peeling might seem like a minor aesthetic issue, but they actually create ideal conditions for the corrosion process to begin. For example, moisture penetrates beneath the paint, which causes the damaged area to expand, and temperature fluctuations further worsen the situation.

Car age and operating conditions

A car’s longevity largely depends on its maintenance and environmental conditions. Even new cars can face corrosion problems if they are used under harsh conditions. However, older cars are generally more vulnerable as materials naturally wear down, and the protective layer weakens.

Older cars are more prone to corrosion issues

As cars age, their protective coatings become less effective. Manufacturers usually apply a protective layer to new models, but this layer deteriorates over time due to the natural aging of materials, frequent mechanical damage, and poorly executed repairs.

Why choose anticorrosion coating?

Long-term protection for the car

A car is a significant investment, so it’s natural that every driver wants to maintain its aesthetic and technical condition for as long as possible. Unfortunately, corrosion can significantly shorten a vehicle’s lifespan, and repairs can often be costly. One of the most effective ways to protect a car from rust is professional anticorrosion coating.

An economical solution in the long run

Many drivers, when considering additional protection for their car, first look at the costs. However, anticorrosion coating is one of those investments that pays off in the long term, allowing you to save a considerable amount of money and avoid expensive repairs.

Increased car value

If you plan to sell your car in the future, its condition will be one of the most important factors affecting the final selling price. Anticorrosion coating is not only protection against rust, but also an important investment that helps maintain the vehicle’s market value over a longer period.

When is the best time to apply anticorrosion coating?

To maximize your car’s protection from rust and ensure long-term effectiveness, it’s crucial to choose the right time for anticorrosion treatment. Although this procedure can be performed at any time of the year, certain seasons are more favorable as they provide the best results.

Spring or autumn – the best time for the procedure

In spring, the salts, dirt, and moisture accumulated during winter are removed. In winter, the underside of the car and the body are most vulnerable to corrosion due to the aggressive chemicals used on the roads. After washing the car thoroughly in spring and applying anticorrosion coating, further rust spread is prevented.

Autumn is also a good time to apply protection before the winter season, as the salts used on roads in cold weather have a strong effect on metal. If the underside of the car, wheel arches, or sills lack proper protection, rust can spread very quickly. Anticorrosion coating before winter helps create a barrier that prevents harmful substances from penetrating metal surfaces.

Avoid expensive repairs

Car protection from corrosion is important not only for aesthetics but also for safety and the vehicle’s longevity. The main signs that your car needs anticorrosion treatment are visible rust spots, chipped or damaged paint, and technical issues. If you notice the first signs of corrosion or want to prevent rust in the future, don’t wait – contact specialists and ensure effective protection now.