Underbody Coating

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.

Process of underbody coating

1. Spray

The spray is the most common method used by dealers. The spray consists of a tar-like substance that is applied to the undercarriage. It functions as a barrier for salt, moisture, and oxygen, which causes corrosion.You can also purchase it as a DIY product, but the whole magic lies behind the method of application, so it’s better to do the job with a dealer, especially if you have a new vehicle.

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.For using this method, a DIY solution wouldn’t work; you would need an expert.

3. Drip Oil Spray

If you want to do it yourself, then drip oil spray is the best option. This can be messy but incredibly effective at protecting the undercarriage. It covers every nook and corner of the chassis, forming a robust layer of protection. Time is the factor where you have to show patience in this method. It takes a long time to dry. In some cases, it drips around 48 hours to a week.

4. Dripless Oil Spray

Coming to the last option, the dripless oil spray. This waxy substance is applied to the body and undercarriage, forming a strong protective layer. It doesn’t take much time to dry; however, the layer can easily wear and tear than the other counter methods.

TYPES OF UNDERBODY COATING

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.

Pros of a underbody coating:

1. It provides a layer of protection against corrosion.

2. It will extend the life of your vehicle.

3. It can be applied to damaged areas.

4. It can be self-applied.

5. There are multiple undercoating methods that can be used.

6. The service might help with the cost of your insurance.

7. It may help to reduce interior noise.

Cons of a underbody coating:

1. It is less helpful if corrosion is already present.

2. It works best on new cars.

3. Most vehicles make it five years before corrosion begins to show.

4. A third-party undercoating service might void your vehicle’s warranty.

5. It adds weight to the vehicle.

6. An undercoating is not impervious to damage.

7. It must be reapplied every 3 to 5 years for the best results.