Detect and Prevent Hidden Rust Damage

Cost Savings

Checklist Tasks

• Inspect wheel wells and fender lips for bubbling or roughness indicating rust.
• Check under door weatherstripping for trapped moisture and hidden corrosion.
• Examine underside, especially frame rails and mounts, for flaking paint or orange dust.
• Probe lower door and trunk edges with a plastic pick for soft, rusted spots.
• Look for rust streaks or bubbling paint near window seals indicating early corrosion.
• Remove spare tire, inspecting the well for rust from trapped water or leaking seals.
• Check brake and fuel lines for pitting or swelling to prevent dangerous failures.
• Inspect around headlights and taillights for rust halos from water intrusion.
• Examine seams and pinch welds undercar for swelling due to rust.
• Press on the floor pan inside the cabin to detect soft spots hidden by carpet.
• Check exhaust hanger and heat shield mounts for rust from heat or road salt.
• Inspect battery tray and adjacent metal for acid corrosion spreading to panels.