Corrosion Protection

Protecting the Vehicle from Corrosion

Using the most advanced anti-corrosion construction and design techniques, we are able to produce vehicles of the highest quality. However, this is only part of the job. For long-term resistance to corrosion, the owner's assistance and cooperation are required.

Common Causes of Corrosion

The most common causes of vehicle corrosion are:

- Salt, dirt and moisture from the road accumulating under the vehicle.

- Removal of paint or protective coatings by stones, gravel, abrasion, or small scratches and nicks that leave unprotected metal exposed to corrosion.

High-Corrosion Areas

If you live in areas where the vehicle is constantly exposed to corrosive materials, protection is especially important.

Some of the most common causes of accelerated corrosion are roads treated with salt, chemical dust control materials, ocean air and industrial pollution.

Moisture Promotes Corrosion

Moisture creates the most favorable conditions for corrosion. For example, corrosion is accelerated by high humidity, particularly when temperatures are just above freezing. Under these conditions, corrosive material comes into contact with the vehicle surfaces through moisture, which is slow to evaporate.

Mud is particularly corrosive, as it dries slowly and retains moisture on the vehicle. Even if the mud appears to be dry, it can still retain moisture and promote corrosion.

High temperatures can also accelerate corrosion of parts that are not adequately ventilated, where moisture does not disperse. For these reasons, it is especially important to keep the vehicle clean and free of mud or other accumulated material. This applies not only to visible surfaces but especially to the underside of the vehicle.

Preventing Corrosion

Corrosion can be prevented by observing the following precautions:

Washing the Vehicle

The best way to prevent corrosion is to keep the vehicle clean and free of corrosive materials. Pay particular attention to the underside of the vehicle.

- If you live in a high-corrosion area (where salt is used on roads, near the sea, in areas with polluting industries, with acid rain, etc.), take extra care to prevent corrosion.

In winter, spray the underside of the vehicle at least once a month and clean it thoroughly when winter ends.

- When cleaning under the vehicle, pay attention to components behind the bumper and other areas hidden from view. Perform a complete cleaning: simply wetting accumulated mud instead of washing it away accelerates corrosion rather than preventing it. High-pressure water and steam are particularly effective at removing mud and other corrosive material.

- When cleaning the lower door panels, rocker panels and frame parts, keep the drain holes clear so that moisture can be expelled and not trapped.

Keeping the Garage Dry

Do not park the vehicle in a damp, poorly ventilated garage. This creates an environment favorable to corrosion. This is especially true if you wash the vehicle in the garage or put it in the garage while it is still wet or covered with snow, ice or mud. Even a heated garage can promote corrosion unless it is ventilated enough to disperse moisture.

Keeping Paint and Finishes in Good Condition

Scratches or dents in the finish should be covered with touch-up paint as soon as possible to reduce the possibility of corrosion.

If bare metal is exposed, it is recommended to take the vehicle to a body repair shop.

Bird droppings: Droppings are highly corrosive and can damage painted surfaces within a few hours. Always remove them as soon as possible.

Do not neglect the interior

Moisture can collect under the floor mats and cause corrosion. Check the floor mats regularly to make sure they are dry. Pay particular attention when transporting fertilizers, cleaning materials or chemicals in the vehicle.

They must only be transported in suitable containers. Any spills must be cleaned up, rinsed with clean water and thoroughly dried.