Note: The following article is a warning for vehicle owners considering rubberized or tar-based undercoatings as a rust prevention method. It explains why these types of coatings are ineffective and even harmful to your vehicle.
If you are someone who is concerned about preventing rust and keeping your vehicle in excellent condition for as long as possible, it is crucial to avoid using rubberized or tar-based undercoatings. Although these coatings may initially seem promising, they eventually lead to water trapping and rust issues. In fact, they can even accelerate existing rust or cause new rust to develop.
To illustrate this point, let’s take a look at a 2005 Ford F150 truck with 167,000 miles on it. The body of the truck appears to be in decent condition, aside from some minor rust problems in the fenders. The owner has been diligently applying a Ziebart undercoating to the truck every year to maintain its warranty. However, this undercoating has done more harm than good.
Ziebart’s undercoating process involves layering on a rubberized coating over the years. Unfortunately, this coating has been applied to areas where it shouldn’t have been, such as plastic fender liners, lower control arms, and the engine. As a result, moisture has become trapped, leading to rust issues. The coating has also begun to lift and peel, exposing clean metal to dirt and further accelerating rust.
One notable example of this damage is seen in the truck’s front differential. The rubberized undercoating was applied to this area, and over time, it has trapped moisture, causing the coating to lift and break up. The truck’s frame also showcases the detrimental effects of the undercoating. Common rust-prone areas have been sprayed, resulting in severe damage and even rot. The undercoating has even caused the fuel tank straps to corrode, something that rarely occurs in this generation of trucks.
Moving on to the truck’s rear, the damage becomes even more evident. The undercoating has failed to adhere properly to the surfaces, resulting in lifting and exposing the rust underneath. From the leaf springs to the wheel well liners, rust has spread extensively. The axles and brake hoses have also been coated, leading to potential safety hazards if not addressed promptly.
This truck’s case is a prime example of why rubberized or tar-like undercoatings should never be used on vehicles. Instead of protecting the vehicle, these coatings trap moisture and accelerate the rusting process. While there are alternatives like fluid film or wool wax that allow the vehicle to breathe and provide better protection, rubberized undercoatings should be strictly avoided.
In conclusion, it is crucial to understand the adverse effects of rubberized undercoatings when it comes to preventing rust. Instead of using these ineffective coatings, exploring alternatives that provide better protection for your vehicle is highly recommended. By avoiding rubberized undercoatings and opting for more suitable options, you can ensure the longevity and condition of your beloved vehicle.