You have 4 rustproofing options:
- Rely on the manufacturer standard rustproofing.
- Spring for a one time application.
- Return every year for an annual application.
- Opt for electronic protection.
- Here’s what you need to know about each before making the best investment.
Manufacturer rustproofing
The standard rustproofing included by the manufacturer is warrantied to a certain threshold:
- The years you own the vehicle.
- The number of kilometers you drive.
Your car may be manufacturer rustproofed for 30,000km or 2 years, or something else. Every manufacturer is different.
Manufacturers rely primarily on the use of zinc enriched primers and paints to ward off rust. Zinc is an effective rust preventative, but deteriorates over time. In some cases, galvanized metal, plastics, aluminum and targeted use of rustproofing are used together to reduce the impact of rust.
A warranty situation is defined as a hole. Anything less than 1 inch in diameter may not qualify as a warranty repair.
But if manufacturer rust prevention is good, why do new car dealers sell rust protection? And no, it’s not just to make money (although some do overcharge, putting consumers off).
Simply because aftermarket rustproofing is far more reliable.
One time applications
One time applications come under different names and were made popular by Ziebart back in the 60’s,
Most new car dealers prefer these one time applications.
The product has a waxy consistency with varying degrees of softness.
The process is highly technician dependent. Careless or unenthusiastic technicians product poor results. If an area of metal is not sealed, there is no protection.
Warranties generally require some form of ongoing inspection. If you miss an inspection, you have no warranty. And you probably don't get any reminder so by year five you are likely among the 98% of car owners who fail to comply with warranty conditions.
Annual applications
Annual applications use a durable but perishable oil based material like Protectoil.
It’s easier on your vehicle and, as the name suggests, gets refreshed every year. Most customers choose this option because it’s the most affordable without sacrificing quality of protection.
Moisture on metal causes corrosion. Keep moisture away from the exposed metal parts of a vehicle and keep corrosion out (and extend the lifespan of the vehicle). Protectoil locks out the moisture and lock out the potential corrosion.