Underbody Coating

Aim:

A brief study on Underbody Coating of an car.

Objective:

• To obtain a study on underbody coating
• To prepare deatailed report by discussing its types, Pros and Cons.

Introduction:

Underbody Coating:

Underbody coating is usually a dense cladding (often based on rubber) applied uniformly to the undercarriage of the automobile. It is normally sprayed or painted on when the car is just out of the dealership and is clean. But even if you are getting the undercoating applied after a couple of years, it’s fine too. This is because it can prevent further damage to the undercarriage.

Under Body Coating (Ref: https://gomechanic.in/blog/underbody-coating/)

The main purpose of undercoating is to check rust especially in the body components like frame rails along with other exposed metal parts. Underbody coating can also reduce wear and tear.

Detailed View of Before/After Undercoating of car Bottom view

(http://carzio.in/carzio-services/speciality-services/full-underbody-coating)

In Indian road conditions, a cars underbody is most prone to corrosion. Underbody coating provides long term protection from corrosion to car’s underbody. It also protects parts like internal body panels, frame rails and other inner cavities that are not physically accessible but are prone to corrosion.

Process of Undercoating:

Process in Car Underbody Coating Ref: https://autounleashed.com/blog/car-underbody-coating/

Step 1 – Cleaning the Underbody

• You have to remove all debris and contaminants from the chassis to start with the undercoating process. It is another way to maintain your car in routine. You will need a hydraulic hoist or lift to complete this step in the right manner.

Degreaser:

• A high-quality commercial-grade degreaser would be helpful in removing oil and grime from the undercarriage. Follow the exact steps listed on the cover or recommended by the manufacturer. Spray the degreaser, then allow it to soak for a moment, then wipe it off with a microfibre towel or shop rag.

Grinding:

• Now, grind the existing hard contaminants and rust from the undercarriage and other components that you want to treat. You can use a mild grinding pad to remove the debris easily, but remember to wear eye protection while doing it.

Sanding:

• After degreasing and grinding, remove those scratches and other stubborn contaminants using a 200 to 400 grit.

Use a Tack Rag or IPA solution:

• To wind up the cleaning process, wipe down the area with a tack rag or IPA solution.

Step 2 – Applying Priming

You will need a primer for applying DIY consumers. Primers serve as a basecoat. You need to follow the instructions listed by the manufacturer for expected results. The recommended primers usually contain a high level of zinc. Zinc helps in reducing rusting, even if the protective layer is penetrated.

Applying Primer Coating Ref: https://autounleashed.com/blog/car-underbody-coating/

Step 3 – Applying Undercoating

This is the final step. The undercoating sprays are similar to bed liners. Most products are applied in two steps as dual layers. The first layer should be thin, covering the entire surface. Allow it to rest at least for an hour, especially if you are applying a rubberized undercoating.

After this layer has been dried, you can apply the second coat generously. Don’t forget to apply it as per the instructions given by the manufacturer. It will take a few hours to days for curing.

When you are done with the process, you need to look after the undercarriage to protect it from saltwater, road grime, or mag chloride as these contaminants are corrosive and result in oxidation and rusting.

Types of Undercoating

1. Rubberized Underbody Coating:

Rubberized Underbody Coating Ref: ( https://gomechanic.in/blog/underbody-coating/)

This is generally thought of as the best underbody coating for your car. It preserves the underbody well, protecting it from scratches. Applying this to the undercarriage is not much of a hassle either.

2. Wax Based Underbody Coating

This – more or less – ephemeral undercoating will wear away in a few months’ time. On the upside, wax-based undercoating puts up a big fight against moisture. It is also the most affordable option out there.

3. Asphalt Based Automotive Undercoating

Asphalt Based Automotive Undercoating Ref: (https://gomechanic.in/blog/underbody-coating/)

Best suited for lorries, trucks and large vehicles this provides a greater degree of protection compared to rubber-based coatings. However, asphalt-based coatings contain little amounts of rubber for sound-insulation purposes. The process of applying this coating is a bit time-consuming though.

4. Polyurethane Underbody Coating

Polyurethane Underbody Coating Ref: (https://gomechanic.in/blog/underbody-coating/)

This coating closes up splits and fractures on the underbody of the vehicle. It offers up good protection against corrosion and also bonds with the metal. Unlike in the case of asphalt-based coating, you can paint over the polyurethane coating.

Advantages of Undercoating

Now we will tell you why you should consider investing in a vehicle underbody coating.

• Fights Rust

It plays an important role in keeping corrosion at bay. Underbody coating can come in handy especially if you live near the sea, where there is too much humidity, and rusting is just one of those everyday things. You should also seriously consider undercoating if you reside in a place where it snows in winter.

• Absorbs Noise

Believe it or not, very thick undercoating can soften the noises that reach the cabin. Since the undercoating is often made up of rubber it absorbs some of the rackets. The occupants of the car could spare themselves of the road noises – at least up to a certain extend.

• Reinforcement

If your car comes with stock underbody coating, using another coating on top of it, is not going to hurt. It will offer additional reinforcement, protecting the underbody from water, road debris, gravel and small pebbles. There would also be a lesser chance for the factory coat to flake away.

• Prolong Car’s Life

Good undercoating not only defends the underbody from corrosion but also protects the engine and transmission as well! Less rusting coupled with slower wear and tear can surely add years to the lifespan of your vehicle. There would be fewer dents, dings and scratches on the undercarriage for you to fret about.

Disadvantage of Undercoating:

Undercoating will work best on new vehicles that have not been exposed to road conditions. A used vehicle may already have residue on the bottom of the car or even have spots of rust and corrosion. Undercoating will not help you if corrosion already exists and the corrosion needs to be removed first before it can be applied, which can be expensive for you.

Nothing comes for free in this world. The same goes for undercoating. The undercoating or rustproofing spray is heavy in pockets. However, it is nothing when you compare it with the cost of replacing

Conclusion:

Corrosion is real, especially for people living in coastal communities. Protecting your car underbody is a smart way of reducing the corrosion build-up. It extends your car’s life. Maintaining car underbody coating can be a lifesaver for the driver. Conventional underbody treatments such as road salt or mag chloride are still used for rust or corrosion-related issues. However, the real concern is the need for these products for our car today.Applying to undercoat, as soon as you get your new car, is the best way to keep the chassis intact. This covers the undersurface saving it from road grime and other stuff.