As much as we adore Subaru's and believe they are on a level higher than most, they are still a machine. Like everything else on the planet, Subaru's have wear and tear from the elements, time, and frankly just being present in the world.
Living in the Pacific Northwest, like Seattle, Washington, you may experience even more elements than the average American from which to protect your vehicle against. One of the major culprits and consequences of owning a vehicle over time, is fighting the battle of rust. Although rust is inevitable, there are definitely some great ways to slow the process and keep your car looking brand new.
Use these tips for how to prevent rust on your car, and you'll be well ahead of the rust game
Keep it Clean
Washing your car regularly is one of the easiest ways to avoid rust. Keeping the body and underside of your vehicle clean from road grime, salt, dust, and mud, will stop those unwanted "toxins" from eating away at the paint and metal. Whether it's once a week or twice a month, be sure to keep track of when you last gave your Subaru a bath. Depending on the weather, have extra wash sessions if your car braved a snowstorm or other harsh element situation. When washing your car, add one tablespoon of baking soda to your soap and water mix to help neutralize road salt.
Always Rinse and Dry
When you're done scrubbing down your vehicle, make sure you thoroughly rinse off all of the soap. You don't want to leave dried soap on on the paint, causing the paint to break down quicker. Also, be mindful of washing your vehicle in direct sunlight, as this will cause the soap to dry to the paint much faster.
Don't Forget the Nooks and Crannies
Keep your eye on the small parts of the body that are easily overlooked. Check the drain holes around the bottom doors and panels that allow rainwater to flow out (tip: you can clean these with a pipe cleaner). Inspect the wheel wells and bumpers because they tend to be the dirtiest. Take a look at where the body components meet - i.e. the doors, hood, trunk. The constant friction/motion will rub away their protection faster than other areas of the car.
Wax On, Wax Off
Waxing your Subaru at least twice a year goes a long way in preventative measures. Wax repels water and creates another layer of protection for the paint (even in direct sunlight). Along with wax, it's also a good idea to pre-treat your vehicle's undercarriage with an oil pre-treatment solution that can be sprayed on all the exposed parts. This will help prevent salt and water from the road sticking to those important metal parts underneath.
While you can't avoid every puddle, especially living in our beautiful state with the coast and mountains at our fingertips, you can prevent quick damage. Keeping your Subaru rust free doesn't have to be difficult. With a little effort and awareness, you can go on all the adventures without piling on the rust.
If you need help, click here to schedule an appointment at Suburb Service, or call (206) 705-8695 to reach our Seattle location. Show your Subaru some love by keeping it protected.