Effective underbody protection isn't rocket science—but it's also nothing to be taken lightly. Before deciding on a treatment, it's important to weigh the benefits and potential drawbacks. Because incorrectly or inadequately applied protection won't provide any benefits.

Even though rust cannot be completely prevented in the long term, underbody and rust protection measures can significantly extend the lifespan of your vehicle. They protect against aggressive influences such as road salt and brine – at least for a certain period of time. However, long-term protection requires regular maintenance and inspection.

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❗ Why underbody protection is relevant for every driver

A car is a big purchase – and it’s worth securing it.
Over time, rust can cause serious damage that goes far beyond cosmetic defects:

• Leaks in the fuel system

• Damage to the engine or transmission

• Complete failures of important systems

If no protection is applied, the risk of such problems increases.
Corrosion not only impairs functionality but also reduces resale value – and can compromise safety-critical components. Taking action early saves money and stress in the long run.

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🌧️ Invisible risks from weather and road chemicals

In regions with harsh climates, vehicles are exposed to particular stresses.
Aggressive de-icing agents, brine, tree resin, or micro-scratches from branches – all of these can damage the paint and underbody. Once the protection is breached, rust is usually not far behind.

Road brine is particularly critical:

• Crawls into the smallest cavities

• Adheres particularly strongly

• Difficult to remove

• Attacks all types of vehicles

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🔍 Experiences and opinions: Is underbody protection worth it?

According to a report by the US automobile club AAA, rust damage causes around $3 billion in repair costs annually.
While modern de-icing agents are effective in cold weather, many car washes use recycled water. The question is: Does it remove all residues, or does the brine actually flush deeper into the vehicle?

A high-quality underbody protection is therefore a sensible investment in maintaining the value of your car.

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🛡️ What you should know about the protection types

The ideal time for treatment is while the vehicle is still new and rust-free.
When it comes to underbody protection, there are basically two types:

1. Solid protection (e.g. rubber, bitumen, wax)

2. Oil-based protection (creeping and flexible)

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⚠️ If rust is already present: Stay away from hard protection

If your vehicle already has rust spots, oil-based protection is a better choice. Why?

• Solid coatings lock in the rust → moisture remains → rust progresses

• Oil-based products penetrate through the rust to the healthy metal → displace moisture → stop oxidation

Good oil products can penetrate up to 10-15 cm into cracks, folds and welds – exactly where rust tends to form.

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🌀 Advantages of oil-based underbody protection

• Self-healing : Protects even against small impacts

• Creeping ability : Penetrates into inaccessible areas

• More environmentally friendly than bitumen-based products

• Soundproofing : Reduces driving noise in the interior

• Easy to use : With instructions & matching DIY kit

• Cost-effective : Professional applications cost up to $1,000, DIY solutions often under $150

Important: The application can be a bit messy – so make sure you cover your work area well!

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💡 What you should consider regarding care and durability

• Annual refresher recommended for optimal protection

• In regions with a lot of road salt: annual inspection is mandatory

• Regular visual inspection is advisable: Does the layer still cover everything?

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⏳ How long does a protective layer last?

This depends on usage and environment:

• Trailers that are hardly moved : protection often lasts for many years

• Everyday vehicles : Check and, if necessary, follow-up treatment annually advisable

• Stone chips & dirt : Can damage protective layer → regular checks recommended

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🚌 Why motorhomes shouldn't be forgotten

Underbody protection is particularly worthwhile for motorhomes with open frames:

• Protection against rust, heat, vibrations and moisture

• Easy to apply over large areas

• No annual renewal necessary
  → Ideal for campers, vans & Co.

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🚫 Applied incorrectly = ineffective

Even the best product is useless if it is not used correctly.
Best: Application by trained professionals or use the official instructions & videos from NHOU – so that your protection is not only there, but also effective.

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