What Is Underbody Coating?
When it comes to vehicle maintenance and upgrades, most car owners rarely give attention to what’s under the body. However, protecting your vehicle exterior is essential to maintain the car’s structural integrity and keep it in top condition for longer. Underbody coating is one way of providing a protective layer for the vehicle’s undercarriage so you can keep damage at bay. So, what is underbody coating? And how can it protect your vehicle? Is it essential? Let’s answer these questions in this comprehensive guide so you know whether it is worth the investment or not.
Key Takeaways
• An underbody coating protects the underside of your car from elements, dings, and dents. It also protects against excess moisture and humidity that can cause rust and corrosion.
• There are various types of underbody coating, but the most common ones are rubberized, wax-based, and asphalt-based undercoating.
• The cost of underbody coating starts at $300 and can go up to $1,000 at certain dealerships and auto shops.
• Underbody coating offers several benefits, such as rust and corrosion protection, noise reduction, temperature resistance, and a longer lifespan.
What is Underbody Coating?
The underbody coating protects the car and its undercarriage from damage by adding a rubberized layer on its surface. Your car’s undercarriage is an exposed part of the vehicle, which is also the one that is most vulnerable to damage as it is close to contact with the elements, such as the gravel, moisture, salt, and sludge, among other things. Exposure to these harmful substances can result in rusting and surface corrosion.
Adding an underbody coating to the vehicle benefits cars that are driven in areas with heavy rainfall or those wherein the road conditions are less than ideal. The underbody coating can help extend the car’s lifespan, especially when the cars are regularly exposed to harsh environmental conditions. When the vehicle’s undercarriage is protected from the elements, no rust can form.
Aside from preventing rust, protecting the car’s underbody is critical because this is where the suspension, exhaust system, engine, fuel lines, and other mechanical components are located. Protecting them from damage can also ensure your vehicle remains in good condition for a long time.
Why Do You Need Underbody Coating?
An undercoating is an essential investment that can increase the longevity and overall health of the vehicle. Here are the benefits of investing in undercoating, especially if you choose a high-quality coating.
Waterproof Protection
Investing in an underbody coating provides a waterproof barrier for your vehicle’s undercarriage. It is essential to reduce the amount of moisture or water that your underbody is exposed to since it can significantly reduce the chance of rust formation.
Prevent Rust
Preventing rust and corrosion is an essential part of why you need a coating for your car. If you live in an area with excessive humidity or moisture, rusting of car components is a common occurrence. It is also important in areas with heavy snow or experience the monsoon season.
These conditions make your vehicle at high risk of corrosion. You can protect your car from damage with an underbody coating, extend its lifespan, and preserve your rust warranty.
Noise Reduction
Noise reduction is one of the lesser-known benefits of applying underbody coating to your car. This protective layer can reduce the noise that enters the cabin. The undercoating is usually made of rubber that absorbs and diffuses noise. It adds to the comfort on the car interior because it absorbs excess noise and offers a quiet ride.
Temperature Resistance
Driving your car at a certain speed or on long distances causes the internal components to experience elevated temperatures. A high-quality underbody coating can regulate the temperature and absorb some of the excess heat to ensure that it won’t cause damage to your car’s underside and the nearby components.
Extend Lifespan
Lastly, a good underbody coating for your car can extend its lifespan. It protects your car’s underbody from corrosion and rust, while also preserving the gearbox and the engine. With less corrosion, there is less wear and tear on the vehicle.
Types of Underbody Coating
Gone are the days when spraying motor oil to the underside of the vehicle is the only way to protect this part of your vehicle. Discover the various types of underbody coating to suit your car’s needs and driving conditions.
Rubberized Underbody Coating
A rubberized underbody coating is the most common type. Once applied, it creates a soft and rubberized finish to your vehicle.
A rubberized coating lasts long, which makes it a good investment. It also provides a noise reduction benefit and protects your car from dents and dings because it allows any debris from the road to bounce off your vehicle.
However, a rubberized underbody coating has a few downsides. For example, it works best on new vehicles with no existing rust. You must also re-apply it every few years to ensure it is still intact and can offer the best protection.
Wax Based Underbody Coating
A wax- or paraffin-based underbody coating is another type that you can apply to your vehicle’s underbody. This protective layer is never entirely dry, providing a moist barrier for your vehicle’s metal parts.
The advantage to choosing a wax-based coating is that it is inexpensive. You can also buy one and apply it on your own. It has the ability to seep into cracks to prevent corrosion.
Like a rubberized coating, this must be reapplied constantly to ensure it can offer damage protection. Ensure that it is applied correctly to avoid it from dripping.
Asphalt Based Automotive Undercoating
An asphalt-based undercoating is best reserved for trucks and machinery, or any heavy-duty applications. It is the best choice when you want a hearty protection for your car’s underside and is effective in reducing road noise.
The only downside to an asphalt-based underbody coating is that it requires professional installation. And it also takes a longer curing time so make sure you plan when to apply this coating.
What is the Cost of Underbody Coating?
The cost of applying a coating varies greatly based on what type of coating you use and where you have it applied.
The undercoating cost ranges from $300 to $1,000. Consider the long-term cost involved since some coating types will require re-application every few years. However, it is a considerable investment that will pay off big because it can protect you from more expensive repairs.
What is Underbody Coating & Is It Worth It?
If you want to maintain your car’s value over time and increase its lifespan, an undercoating is worth it. If you want to save yourself from the cost of repairs against damage due to road salt and other harsh conditions, then an undercoating is worth it.
Taking preventive measures to protect your vehicle parts, especially the exposed components on the underside of the vehicle, is crucial to maximize its longevity and overall health.
FAQs
Is car underbody coating necessary?
Yes. Investing in an undercoating is essential because it prevents damage to your car’s underbody, especially rust. It also protects against wear and tear.
Does underbody coating stop rust?
Spraying coating provides a rust-proof protective layer to your vehicle. With this layer, you can greatly reduce the chances of rust formation.
What are the disadvantages of undercoating a car?
While there are many benefits to undercoating, it won’t be beneficial if corrosion already exists. Make sure you remove the corrosion first before applying the coating.
How long does undercoating last?
Underbody coating is an oil-based substance that coats the underside of the vehicle. It is a thin layer that should be re-applied once a year, or more depending on how harsh the environmental factors the vehicle is exposed to, for it to be effective.
When should I undercoat my car?
The best time to apply is summer and spring. These seasons provide a favorable condition that will maximize their effectiveness, especially before the harsh conditions of winter kicks in.
What type of undercoating is best?
The rubberized undercoating is the most common type because it is easy to apply and effective against elements, such as moisture and rust. Its soft rubbery finish also protects your vehicle’s underside against dings and dents.
