If you see rust on your car, you may wonder if it's necessary to visit an auto body shop to remove the unsightly marks. However, rust causes more problems for your vehicle than making it unattractive. Here's a brief guide to help you understand more about this issue and how it affects cars.

Why Cars Rust

Rust is a type of corrosion that occurs when iron comes in contact with water and oxygen. This process is called oxidizing, and it can affect many kinds of metals. Because rust is corrosive, it'll eventually eat away at the material.

Cars are prone to rust because they consist primarily of metal components. Though modern vehicles have protection against oxidation in the form of auto paint, rust can set there are scratches. Additionally, while road salt is useful for melting snow and ice on asphalt, it can accumulate under your vehicle and promote rust development.

How Rust Damages Cars

If your car has little protection against corrosion or has scratches in its paint job, your vehicle will experience body damage if rust sets in. The paint is a barrier between the vehicle's metal frame and air and moisture. Once that protective layer is removed, the rust will cause the framework to flake off, making the car structurally unsafe. Small rust spots can be quickly treated at an auto body shop, but the rust will spread if left neglected.

The engine is also vulnerable to rust, as its metal components will degrade over time due to oxidation, reducing the car's performance. It can even damage the exhaust system connectors and weaken the trunk, making it vulnerable to water leaks.

If your car has a rusting problem, the team at Bob Hastings Collision in East Rochester, NY, is here to help. Since 1972, this auto body shop has been the go-to destination for superior repairs. Their skilled mechanics offer everything from car detailing to paint scratch repair services. To learn more about all they have to offer, visit them online. To request a free estimate, call (585) 383-8150.