Things You'll Need:
- car wax
- Car cover
- Tarp garage
- Mud flaps
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Step 1
Rust is created when moisture hits metal so this is the thing you have to try to prevent. Keep your car clean as best you can all the time. Keeping it washed is your first line of defense.
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Step 2
Make sure that the wheel hubs and the undercarriage are also clean. Many people neglect these areas because they aren't visible. This makes it one of the easiest places for rust to start. Use your hose sprayer to get under things when you clean your car.
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Step 3
Don't put your clean car away wet. Since rust is caused by moisture meeting metal you don't want to put it in the garage which may be damp, while it is wet. Dry the body of the car with a soft chamois or towel and don't forget the bumpers. Let the car stand outside in the sun or at least in the air for a while so that the undercarriage can dry, too.
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Step 4
Keep your car waxed. A nice wax coat gives you extra protection against rust. It's one more layer between the metal and the moisture. Use a good quality wax as directed. If you keep it waxed the body will seldom get a chance to form rust.
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Step 5
Put mud flaps on your wheel wells. This will stop debris from collecting under there. It will also keep stones from pinging off your wheel wells which damages the surface and makes a spot for rust to begin.
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Step 6
If you have to drive in snow when the salt is on the roads, know that your car is in a much higher risk bracket for rust. The salt eats through wax and metal like acid. If you can avoid driving in the snow, that's great, but that isn't a viable alternative for most people. Rinse your car off every time after getting around snow and salt. SInce the salt is so corrosive, make sure it gets waxed every week.
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Step 7
Small rocks hitting your car as you drive also creates dings and cracks in the paint. Don't drive on top of the other cars. Keeping some distance will keep those loose stones from damaging your vehicle.
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Step 8
Keep your eyes open. Check your car often for rust because if you get it to a body shop quickly, it won't do much damage to your car--or to your pocket.
