How do I keep my car from rusting in New England? The best way to stop rust is to wash off road salt after storms, wax each season, and treat the frame and pivot points once or twice a year. Catch rust early, because it's far easier to prevent than repair.
Why New England is hard on vehicles
Road treatments, potholes and swings from below zero one day to 75 the next all take a toll. The most common reason we see people get rid of a vehicle is rust and rot. Once the body and frame rot away, mechanical repairs rarely make sense.
What rot looks like
We've seen a GMC truck with a frame rotted straight through near the plow mount. We've seen a Ford Focus with holes big enough to put a hand through. We've even seen a Ford F450 with frame holes that rotted from the inside out. Those are accidents waiting to happen.
Wash after winter storms
Salt and sand get thrown onto the underside of your car. They don't wash off in the rain. Use a car wash with an undercarriage spray, and do it after each storm.
Wax when the seasons change
Modern wax goes on and off easily and protects the paint. The more often you do it, the easier it gets. Use the chance to look under the car for anything that needs attention.
Treat early rust
- Spray a rust penetrating oil on pivot points, brake lines and the frame once or twice a year, before and after winter.
- Put cardboard down so it doesn't stain your driveway.
- For light surface rust, clean it with a stiff wire brush and apply one light coat of rust treating paint.
It works like soaking a rusty bolt in penetrating oil.
What we do
When a vehicle comes in with early rust, we treat it to keep it from spreading. We also check brake lines, suspension parts and the frame during service.
Questions we hear
How often should I treat the frame?
Once or twice a year works well. Many people do it before and after winter.
Is surface rust a big deal?
Light surface rust is easy to treat. Rust that flakes or has holes is a safety problem, so have it checked.
Questions about rust? Call us at (413) 363-0306, or schedule a visit. Our scheduled maintenance and suspension checks help spot problems early.
