Underbody Coating

Underbody Coating

Introduction

A car’s underbody is exposed to the most wear and tear caused by muddy water, potholed roads, stones, and other obstacles on the road, because it’s not in plain sight, we often do not see the damage. In Indian road conditions, a car’s underbody is the most prone to corrosion, Underbody coating provides long-term protection from corrosion. It also protects parts like the internal body panels, frame rails, and other inner cavities that are not physically accessible but are prone to corrosion.

Protecting the underbelly of the car should be our top priority, especially during monsoon when heavy precipitation causes the roads to become mini-rivers and our cars are left stranded there. This makes them prone to heavy corrosion in the underbody region.

Types of undercoating

1. Rubberized 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:

Wax-based undercoating puts up a big fight against moisture. It is also the most affordable option out there.

3. Asphalt Based Automotive Undercoating:

This is best suited for Lorries, trucks, and large vehicles this provides a greater degree of protection compared to rubber-based coating. However, the asphalt-based coating contains little amount of rubber for sound-insulation purposes. The process of applying this coating is bit time-consuming though.

4. Polyurethane underbody coating:

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

Different methods of undercoating

1. Spray:

The spray is the most common method used by dealers. The spray consists of tar-like substance that is applied to the undercarriage. It functions as a barrier for salt, moisture and oxygen which causes corrosion.

2. Electronic:

Removing the electrical current capacity of items underneath the vehicles is another method for applying to undercoat. A weak electric current circulates

through the material, reducing the chances of rusting.

3. Drip Oil Spray:

This method is incredibly effective at protecting the undercarriage. It covers every nook and corner of the chassis, forming a robust layer of protection.

4. Dripless Oil Spray:

In this method waxy substance is applied to the body and undercarriage, forming a strong protective layer. However, the layer can easily wear and tear than the other counter methods.

Advantages of Underbody coating

• Undercoating gives an extra layer of protection against rust and corrosion,

protecting your car.

• Undercoating will eventually wear out, but you can get years of protection

from it. Even vehicles in warmer climates gain protection as debris is

repelled and kept away from eating at the vehicle.

• It can be self-applied.
• It minimizes the sound from underneath the car.
• It insulates the interior of the car from the extreme temperature from

beneath the vehicle.

• The coating does not chip away when hit by stones.

Disadvantages of Underbody coating

• 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.

• It must be reapplied every 3 to 5 years for the best results.
• It adds weight to the vehicle.