Expert: Mark Haben - 12/8/2007

Question
Hi Mark.  Could I get your unbiased opinion please. Regarding rustproofing/inhbitor/underbody protection. I purchased a new vehicle and would like your expert opinion on what YOU would do if planning on keeping a vehicle for 10+ years.  There is dealer applied, Ziebart, Krown, or yearly oilsprays as options. I need to do something soon. Thanks

Answer
Joe-

I believe the factory applied rustproofing to the underbody of the vehicle should suffice for the life of the car. However-to be honest, I live on the west coast and we don't have big issues with salt on the roads, and we have a reasonably mild climate here, so there is not a lot of rust or corrosion issues here. Depending on where you live and the climate there it may be a more viable option for you. Most dealerships I have worked for don't even sell it, opting for the sale of paint & fabric sealant packages instead. I think I would check the corrosion warranty of the manufacturer- which may be 5 years or more, and make my decision based on that. Good Luck- Mark