As a vehicle owner, you have probably dealt with rust at some point. No matter how well you take care of your vehicle, rust spots may appear, and the longer you own your vehicle, the more likely you are to encounter it. Fortunately, there are ways to deal with rust and help prevent it.

To protect vehicles from rust, manufacturers apply a variety of protective coatings, including lacquers and resistant paints. The thicker the coatings, the better chance the vehicle will not rust. However, common nicks, scratches and dents will penetrate coatings and expose the surface to corrosive elements, like water, dirt and salt. Over time, the surface will develop rust. If left untreated, the rust may eat through the surface, leaving unsightly holes.

The most common areas where rust occurs include doors, bumpers, chrome-plated trim, hinges and brackets, and any other places prone to nicks, scratches and dents. There are several measures you can take to protect your vehicle. First, cover paint nicks quickly. If you don’t have any touchup paint on hand, use some clear nail polish to seal the area. Then get to an auto supply store for some touchup paint. For the exact color of your vehicle, check the identification plate for the paint code number. If you don’t know where the identification plate is, consult your owner’s manual. Keep in mind that unusual paint colors may have to be ordered. Next, mend any scratches you see. Pick up a scratch repair kit at an auto supply store and follow the instructions. Finally, repair any dents that occur. Unless you’re an auto body specialist, you probably won’t be able to fix the dents yourself. Ask around and find a service specializing in paintless dent repair.

Preventive care is key in deterring rust. Avoid parking your vehicle outside for long periods of time. Elements, like the sun and rain, are hard on a vehicle’s surface. Wash and wax your vehicle often. Make sure you use a cleaner and a wax that is appropriate for your vehicle’s finish. If you live in an area with harsh winters, consider having your vehicle, especially the undersurface, professionally undercoated.

Rust can make any car look old. Fortunately, keeping it at bay isn’t difficult. With some maintenance and preventative care, you can keep your car free of rust and looking like new for a long time.