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 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 .

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.

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.

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 .

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 :

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:

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:

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 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 chlo 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 .