Choosing Between Solvent Based and Water Based Rust Inhibitors

Protecting your favourite car from rust is a never-ending challenge. The best way to deal with rust is to act before you see that most dreaded trace of rust right in the corner of your door hinge. Many car owners are often confused when it comes to choosing the right rust inhibitor for their car. Read on to find out about the two types of rust inhibitors and what difference they bring in.

What is a Rust Inhibitor?

A rust inhibitor acts as a layer of protection between the surface of the car and the adverse effects of external contaminants, moisture and dirt. Rust inhibitors are of two main types and it is important to understand the pros and cons of both types to make the right choice based on individual need.

Solvent Based Inhibitors

Solvent based products prevent rust by forming a coating on the car surface to prevent the action of water on the metal. They can be directly applied to the surface without being diluted. The high surface tension of these inhibitors does not only keep moisture away but also displaces the residual moisture content completely. They have been the trusted source of rust prevention for severe conditions since long.

Water Based Inhibitors

These products are more economical than the solvent based inhibitors. They work by reducing the oxidation susceptibility of the metal and are also much easier to use. They can be applied to the surface of the car by using the spray or immersion techniques. Since this rust stopper does not eliminate the water completely they are more suitable for milder conditions.

Tips to Maintain Your Car during the Wet Season

Wet weather makes both driving and car maintenance a tedious task. Rain and snow are natural causes of accidents as well as car rust. Cars from the snow-clad region suffer the most during winter. To ensure a problem-free wet season for your car, the following tips must be considered.

Undercoat your Car

The first precautious measure for the wet season is to undercoat the car. This helps to fight the rust by protecting the highly vulnerable areas and by blocking small cracks or crevices that give way for rusting of the car body. Damage in the under body of the car allows moisture to seep into the interiors thus damaging the engine parts and posing some serious threat. A steam wash for the car followed by undercoating ensures better safety during the rainy season.

Regular Car Check-Ups

Cars must be checked for damage more frequently during the rainy season. Pay attention to the frame, chassis, door hinges as well as the paint surface. The metal components under the hood must also be checked frequently to understand the severity of the corrosion.

Keep the Car Spic and Span

While this may sound very obvious, it is often an overlooked pointer. It is mandatory that car owners take the time out to wash their car every time it is used on the snowy roads. If the car is vintage, it is certainly better to avoid driving it during the wet season as older cars are more susceptible to corrosion.

Tips to Protect Your Classic Car from Rust

Classic cars outlive time and trend and are a passion for many. They offer a sense of pride and demand much effort to stay in prime shape. The worst foe of classic cars is rust and it only takes the smallest crack to get the uninvited guest aboard. To preserve the heritage and memories of your classic car follow these simple steps on how to stop rust damage.

Trivial Changes May Add Value to the Car

Inspect the car regularly for the slightest sign of damage. Paint chips must be fixed immediately and small traces of rust can be removed using a rust remover. Replace the moisture absorbing carpet mats of the car with rubber mats to prevent spreading of rust from the interior.

Class Must Be Coupled With Cleanliness

Like any other car, vintage cars must also be washed after every use to remove all rash salts and debris from the road. Do not use a high pressure spray while washing as it may remove paint from the car’s surface. Car owners must pay attention to fenders and the under body while washing.

A Good Car Cover is a Great Investment

Many people use their classic assets only for special occasions and leave them undisturbed during the other days. This however does not mean the car is safe from rust. Soft indoor car covers are best suited for protecting the paint on the surface of the car. Combining this with a dehumidifier is the solution to protect the car from rust while it is safely parked in the garage.