Some rust is not a naturally occurring event and some comes about due to improper repair work. All too often, the latter is the case. If you see a panel rusting at the seam on the right side and the left side isn’t, that panel may not have been treated properly during repairs. You may want to take this issue up with the shop that did the repairs. Did they use non O.E. (Original Equipment) parts? Aftermarket parts may not have the longevity of an O.E. part. Check into the specific parts warranty from where the repairs were performed.
Some rust can originate in the factory where the part is manufactured. Stamped steel structural and body components are typically dipped in a solution at the parts manufacturer call “e-coat”. Rust can start in seams where the e-coat seals in a little moisture or the e-coat didn’t cover the seam completely when dipped in the tank of e-coat. This is an example of where you tend to see rust on newer models in lower seam areas of the vehicle.
Other rust can be caused by a design flaw. An example of a design flaw would typically be a pressed form piece of sheet metal that has a corner or seam at a weld that allows for moisture to collect, leading to hidden corrosion. Welding also changes the crystalline structure of the adjoining metal parts and requires treatment with special primers to retard corrosion that may subsequently occur as a result of this welding operation. If left untreated with this protective coating, it may lead to failure of a welded structural member.
Aluminum corrodes, too!! It’s similar to rust mainly in initial appearance. It is also caused by chemical reaction. Aluminum should never be repaired (or bared!) in the same environment as steel or other metals. The steel airborne particles are attracted to the aluminum panels. Although microscopic, these particles can lead to acute corrosion evident under the paint on a panel caused by a reaction between the elements.
Mechanical parts can be affected also. Remember those little wet lines they paint on the roads nowadays just before a snowstorm? That’s a mixture of chemicals containing calcium or “Brine” as they call it. It saves municipalities a lot of $$ compared to salt bouncing around off to the roadside when pre-treating roads. While being environmentally safe, this brine tends to wreak havoc (in the form of corrosion!) on metal brake lines, wiring and other undercarriage components. It’s important to wash off the undercarriage of your vehicle ASAP after a snow or ice event. Have your mechanic regularly inspect the underside of your vehicle. No one needs to have a brake line fail without warning!
Everyday garden-variety rust occurs with bare metal being exposed to moisture and oxygen. Period. Anything humans can do to keep this combination from occurring can extend the life and appearance of your vehicle. Inspect your vehicle’s seams, edges and behind rubber seals for evidence of corrosion on a regular basis. It would be in your best interest to report any findings to your dealer or collision center. There may be some stop-gap measures you can take to minimize the spread.
