When you purchase a new vehicle, the dealer has most likely offered you an optional undercoating to help protect underneath your vehicle's vulnerable undercarriage. This coating is really helpful for people who live in colder areas that can face issues with road salt or possible rust. If you have a used car and you're considering getting an undercoating added, here are some important things you should know before you decide.
Your Car Should be Clean Underneath
If you decide to get an undercoating applied, it is imperative that your vehicle is completely free of rust or holes underneath. If it has some wear and rust, the coating will not adhere properly. Make sure you let someone know if you need to have a good, thorough cleaning before they apply the undercoat. Most places that do this kind of work will clean the surface before application, but it cannot hurt to remind them to be sure it's rust free. It is also advised that you get the coating done on a dry day so it will have plenty of time to cure.
Consider DIY
If you're mechanically savvy, you may want to consider attempting to apply the undercoating yourself. This can certainly save you in labor costs, but it will cost you time. You should get your car on a lift and carefully examine the underside before you apply the coating and be sure to sand down any bumps and rust spots. Steam cleaning underneath the car can remove any excess debris, dirt, and rust shavings. You can purchase undercoating materials at most auto parts stores, and apply it like you would a clear coat to the exterior of your car. It will take a while for it to completely dry and you should let it sit overnight if possible before you take to the road.
What Undercoating Does
For most people, adding the undercoating option may not make a whole lot of difference. However, for people who deal with icy roads and roadways where salt is usually applied, it can be a life saver. The coating protects the undercarriage of your vehicle and prevents it from rusting and the metal from being slowly eaten away by salt. It can extend the life of your car and can protect it from damage for those who ride on rocky or gravel roads as well. Whether or not you choose to have an undercoating applied is up to you, but as long as it's done correctly it should last several years.
Share14 December 2015
Understanding more about the type of car that you have can help you understand the best ways to maintain it, and how to tell if there’s trouble brewing under the hood before you end up stranded. That’s why, when I found a car make that I liked, I kept going back to it every time I bought a new car. It’s also why I use a mechanic that specializes in repairing and maintaining cars made by my specific manufacturer type. Over the years, I’ve learned so much about what makes this particular car work, and what kind of quirks come with this type of vehicle. I started this blog to share some of that information and help other car owners learn to effectively maintain their automobiles and recognize the potential signs of trouble.
