Should you get undercoating on a new car?
When purchasing a new car, one of the optional add-ons you may be offered is undercoating. Undercoating is a protective coating applied to the underside of a vehicle to help prevent rust and corrosion. While it may seem like a worthwhile investment, the decision to get undercoating on a new car is not a straightforward one.
What is Undercoating?
Undercoating is a thick, waxy or rubberized coating that is sprayed or applied to the underside of a vehicle. It is designed to create a barrier between the metal components of the car and the elements, such as water, salt, and debris, that can cause rust and corrosion over time. Undercoating can help extend the lifespan of a vehicle by protecting its structural integrity and preventing costly repairs down the line.
Pros of Getting Undercoating
- Rust Prevention: Undercoating creates a protective barrier that helps prevent rust and corrosion, which can be a significant problem in areas with harsh winters, heavy snowfall, or coastal regions with high salt content in the air.
- Increased Resale Value: A well-maintained vehicle with undercoating can be more attractive to potential buyers, potentially increasing its resale value.
- Noise Reduction: Undercoating can help dampen road noise and vibrations, providing a quieter and more comfortable driving experience.
However, it's important to weigh these benefits against the potential drawbacks of undercoating.
Cons of Getting Undercoating
- Cost: Undercoating can be an expensive add-on, with costs ranging from $100 to $500 or more, depending on the type of coating and the size of the vehicle.
- Potential for Trapping Moisture: If not applied correctly, undercoating can trap moisture and lead to the formation of rust and corrosion in the long run.
- Difficulty Inspecting for Rust: Undercoating can make it more difficult to inspect the underside of the vehicle for signs of rust or other issues, potentially delaying necessary repairs.
- Environmental Concerns: Some undercoating materials may contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or other potentially harmful substances that can be harmful to the environment.
Ultimately, the decision to get undercoating on a new car depends on your specific needs, driving conditions, and personal preferences. It's important to carefully consider the pros and cons and consult with a trusted mechanic or automotive expert before making a decision.
When should I undercoat my new car?
The best time to start undercoating your car is before the winter months. This will safeguard your automobile against extreme weather conditions.
Do new cars rust underneath?
Materials used to make vehicle parts have changed.
Modern cars are made of lighter materials, which do not rust as readily or severely as heavier metals did before them. Plastics through to carbon fibre feature far more in cars these days, and they simply do not rust. In summary, rust on cars is rarer sight these days.
What are the disadvantages of undercoating a car?
However, due to the low viscosity of these fluids, overspray, dripping, and running can be a concern. Additionally, power washing the underbody or getting a car wash could remove the coating completely.
When to undercoat a new car?
The best time to start undercoating your car is before the winter months. This will safeguard your automobile against extreme weather conditions.
What is the average cost for undercoating a car?
OIL BASED COATINGS:
| Service | Clear | Black |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 (Re-Application) | $150 | $150+ |
| Level 2 (Base Job) | $200 | $250 |
| Level 3 (Trucks, SUVs, cars with undercarriage covers. | $350 | $375 |
| Level 4 (Most popular, a must for a new or nice vehicle. Warranty only applies to L4 service) | $600 | $600 |
Do modern cars need to be undercoated?
New vehicles are better candidates for rubberized undercoating. However, many new cars may not need undercoating, since they're built with rust-resistant materials. Since rust doesn't generally appear for five years on most cars, it might not be worth undercoating a new car that you don't plan to keep.
What is the average cost to undercoat a car?
OIL BASED COATINGS:
| Service | Clear | Black |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 (Re-Application) | $150 | $150+ |
| Level 2 (Base Job) | $200 | $250 |
| Level 3 (Trucks, SUVs, cars with undercarriage covers. | $350 | $375 |
| Level 4 (Most popular, a must for a new or nice vehicle. Warranty only applies to L4 service) | $600 | $600 |
Is underbody coating necessary for new cars?
In Indian road conditions, a cars underbody is most prone to corrosion. Underbody coating provides long term protection from corrosion to car's underbody. It also protects parts like internal body panels, frame rails and other inner cavities that are not physically accessible but are prone to corrosion.
Is rust protection worth it on a new car?
Consumer reports The short answer is no. Cars today are manufactured with corrosion protection, which makes this added treatment unnecessary, though it is profitable for car dealerships.
Do modern cars need rust proofing?
If your car was made before 2006, you will absolutely want to invest in a yearly rustproofing treatment to prevent your vehicle from rusting on the road. Cars manufactured after 2006 are made of a combination of galvanized steel, which contains a coating of zinc.
