Rust in Used Cars: What Spokane Buyers Need to Know

Introduction

Here in Spokane, we’re fortunate that our roads don’t get salted during winter months. But as more out-of-state vehicles make their way to our market, particularly from the Midwest and coastal regions, rust has become an increasingly important consideration for used car buyers.

At Spokane Preinspection, we’ve seen our fair share of rust-related issues, from minor surface corrosion to major structural concerns. Let’s dive into what you need to know about rust when shopping for a used car.

Understanding Different Types of Rust

Surface Rust

Surface rust is the earliest stage of corrosion, appearing as reddish-brown spots on metal surfaces. While it might look alarming, surface rust is typically cosmetic and can often be addressed with proper treatment. However, left unchecked, it can develop into something more serious.

Scale Rust

When surface rust progresses, it creates scale rust – a flaky, layered form of corrosion that actually removes material from the metal. This type of rust is more concerning, as it indicates active deterioration of the metal surface.

Penetrating Rust

The most serious form of rust occurs when corrosion has eaten completely through the metal, creating holes or severely weakening structural components. This type of rust often requires extensive repairs or component replacement.

Critical Areas to Check

When inspecting a vehicle for rust, pay special attention to these crucial areas:

Frame Rails and Structural Components

Rust in these areas can compromise the vehicle’s structural integrity and safety. Look particularly at:

• Frame rails under the doors
• Suspension mounting points
• Subframe connections
• Core support (where the radiator mounts)

Body Panels and Cosmetic Areas

While less critical to safety, rust in these areas can indicate broader problems:

• Wheel wells and fender edges
• Door bottoms and rocker panels
• Trunk floor and spare tire well
• Hood and trunk lid edges

Mechanical Components

Rust on mechanical parts can lead to premature failure:

• Brake lines and fuel lines
• Suspension components
• Exhaust system mounts
• Steering components

The Hidden Costs of Buying a Rusty Car

Ongoing Maintenance Requirements

Owning a car with rust means committing to regular maintenance:

• Annual rust treatment applications
• More frequent undercarriage cleaning
• Regular inspection of affected areas
• Preventative coating replacement

Potential Future Repairs

Be prepared for these common rust-related repairs:

• Brake line replacement
• Suspension component failures
• Exhaust system issues
• Body panel work

Safety Considerations

Some rust-related issues can affect vehicle safety:

• Compromised crash protection
• Weakened suspension mounting points
• Failed brake or fuel lines
• Deteriorated jack points

Red Flags When Inspecting Out-of-State Vehicles

Geographic Origins

Be especially cautious of vehicles from:

• Midwest states (heavy road salt use)
• Coastal areas (salt air exposure)
• Northern states (combination of salt and moisture)

Signs of Concealment

Watch for these potential cover-up attempts:

• Fresh undercoating over rusty areas
• Recently painted surfaces with bubbling
• New body panels on an otherwise aged vehicle
• Heavy use of rust converter without proper repair

Making an Informed Decision

When Rust is Acceptable

Some rust situations might be manageable:

• Minor surface rust on non-structural components
• Properly treated and stabilized rust areas
• Cosmetic rust with documented history of treatment
• Rust limited to easily replaceable components

When to Walk Away

Consider these deal-breakers:

• Frame rust that affects structural integrity
• Rust in safety-critical areas
• Multiple layers of cover-up attempts
• Rust damage that exceeds vehicle value to repair

Protecting Your Investment

If you decide to purchase a vehicle with some rust:

1. Document the current condition thoroughly
2. Create a maintenance schedule for rust-prone areas
3. Address new rust spots immediately
4. Keep the undercarriage clean, especially in winter
5. Consider professional rust-proofing treatments

Conclusion

While rust doesn’t have to be an absolute deal-breaker, it’s crucial to understand what you’re getting into. A thorough pre-purchase inspection can reveal the true extent of rust damage and help you make an informed decision about whether a particular vehicle is worth the investment and ongoing maintenance requirements.

At Spokane Preinspection, we’ve saved countless buyers from purchasing severely rust-damaged vehicles, while helping others understand when rust issues are manageable. Don’t let a rusty surprise catch you off guard – Schedule Your Inspection Now and let us be your eyes and ears in evaluating your potential purchase.