Car Mechanic’s Masterpieces – Dealing with rust and rust prevention on second hand cars
Car mechanics are more than just skilled workers. Those who deal in second hand cars can be true artists. When it comes to second hand car purchase it pays to be aware of just how good they can make a car look. Rust is a common problem for car owners – especially those of us who buy second hand. There is no harm in giving a car a good once over if you are buying from an individual, but it is crucial if you are buying from a second hand dealer!
What lies beneath?
If the car you are viewing has recently had a very attractive new paint job, there are some questions you should ask yourself. What lies beneath is the main thought that should enter your head, so checking the bodywork is essential. New cars come complete with a
rust prevention that should last for several years – often six or seven at least. While this may still be okay on second hand cars, they are more likely to have developed problems. During a car’s lifetime it is subject to all manner of small stones chipping away at it. Chips caused by this sort of impact will not normally be visible on the main bodywork. The most sensitive area of the car will be under the wheel arches, where stones are hurled directly at the metal work. Get a torch and have a good poke around on the whole wheel arch, behind the fender – front and back is also worth checking. All sections of the underside should be carefully checked.
Filler Rust Treatments
If you find signs of rust, don’t panic, it can be treated, but may affect the value of the car – something you may be able to use to your advantage. When buying from a dealer, the real thing to check for is signs of filler. This almost certainly won’t be obvious on the visible body work, but tell-tale signs of filler may be found on the underside, or again around the interior of the wheel arches. If you can see signs, you’ll need to check the extent. The areas of un-filled metal work will sound hollow and tinny when tapped, while areas that have been filled will sound denser or solid. Even if there are no obvious signs of filler, this test is worth trying.
Older cars will inevitably develop problem areas, but
rust prevention is not only the most effective way to stop any problems developing, but it is also relatively simple. Applying a good quality
rust prevention product to the most sensitive areas – as described above - will help to protect. Keeping an eye out for small chips and nicks in the paint work will save you money in the long run. These should be treated quickly with a
rust prevention wax or oil, to ensure that no rust can develop. Checks should be made regularly, but it is important to make sure you do a thorough check before the winter starts as this is the time when damage, bad weather and grit salt can combine to cause the first signs of rust, which will soon spread.
Prevention
is better than cure. There are a number of products that can offer prevention
against rust. Products are available either as oils, waxes, fluids and
coatings. The range is vast. Dinitrol
rust prevention products
have been found to be very effective and easy to use while still remaining
affordable.