If you just purchased a used car, to keep it looking as nice as you can, you should learn how to prevent rust from getting on it. Rust can cause serious damage, as it can eat through your paint, eventually causing holes to form on the body of your car.

What Causes Rust

One of the main substances that causes rust to form on your vehicle is salt. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow and ice, you likely drive on salted roads every day. This is because salt is used to melt ice, and once the ice melts, the salt is left behind.

If you live near an ocean, there is high salt content from the air that can get on your car. You don't even have to live right next to the ocean for this to happen.

Many manufacturers use paint and primer that has rust protection in it. This works well, but if the paint/primer is damaged, such as by dents or scratches, moisture can break through it and get on your car.

How to Prevent Rust

The best way to protect your car from getting rusted is to keep it clean. Wash it every couple of weeks, and apply a wax coating about once a month. The wax provides your car with another protective barrier. If you drive on salted roads often, wash your car a few times per week. Salt will usually be found on the underside of your car, as well as on the wheel wells, so wash these areas well.

If you want to be extra careful, there are sealants on the market that prevent rust from forming on cars. If you purchase this, follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to apply it to your car. Just make sure you wash and dry your car before you apply it. This is because this sealant bonds to your car, and you do not want any moisture or dirt trapped underneath it.

For even more protection, you can purchase an anti-rust spray. When you put this spray on your car it creates another layer of protection. Again, make sure your car is clean and dry before you spray it on.

No matter how careful you are, you still may get rust on your car. If so, you should consider taking your car to an auto body repair shop to remove it for you, as it can be difficult to do on your own.