Is It Normal for a New Car to Be Covered in Rust Spots?
2 Answers
It is not normal for a new car's paint surface to have rust spots. This could be due to paint aging, where moisture penetrates the paint and reacts with the metal, causing oxidation and rust. Another possibility is that rainwater contains acidic substances mixed with iron particles from the air, which settle on the car and form rust spots. In such cases, you can seek after-sales compensation from the 4S store. Here are the specific reasons for car rusting: 1. Car Material Application: Some car models are limited by price or brand positioning, preventing the use of high-quality sheet metal materials, which leads to inherent rust issues. Generally, higher-priced cars use more expensive materials like hot-dip galvanized steel, all-aluminum materials, high-strength composites, and carbon fiber, which are naturally resistant to rust. Additionally, whether car manufacturers cut corners can significantly affect material performance. Car steel sheets can undergo various rust-proof treatments, such as galvanization or chrome plating, but some manufacturers skip these steps to save costs. Differences in processes like painting and welding can also lead to "congenital" variations in rust resistance. 2. Human Factors: Most rust issues are caused by improper car usage by owners. For example, unrepaired paint damage exposes the sheet metal surface to air, leading to rust. Frequently driving through waterlogged areas keeps the chassis in prolonged contact with water, causing rust. Not washing the car for extended periods, especially after rain, allows rainwater to corrode the car body. Parking the car in high-humidity areas like beaches or riversides can also contribute to rust. 3. External Factors: These are mainly related to the usage environment. Some areas have poor environments with frequent exposure to acid rain or corrosive dust. Others have humid climates or heavy rainfall, leading to severe chassis rust. Poor road conditions in some regions can cause frequent chassis impacts or gravel strikes, damaging surfaces and increasing the likelihood of rust in vulnerable areas like the engine underguard or exhaust pipe.
When I bought a new car last year, I also encountered many small rust spots on the body, which was quite frustrating. Normally, new cars are treated with anti-rust coatings at the factory, so theoretically, there shouldn't be any rust spots. Those dots are mostly caused by external contaminants. For example, brake dust from the road or iron particles in the air during transportation can land on the paint surface and oxidize, forming small red or yellow spots. This is not corrosion of the car body but impurities adhering to the surface. I immediately went to a car wash and used a professional clay bar to wipe it off, which worked very well and cleaned it up instantly. If left untreated, these rust spots may seep into the paint layer over time, causing real rust damage. I recommend checking the details of the car body when picking up the car, and if any spots are found, have the dealer handle it for free immediately—don't delay and affect the car's condition. In terms of new car maintenance, frequent washing and regular waxing can effectively prevent similar issues and keep the car looking as good as new.
