It starts as a tiny scratch from a grocery cart or a loose stone on the highway. You think, "I'll fix it later." But in Maryland, where winter road crews use salt and brine, that tiny scratch is a ticking time bomb.
How Rust Spreads
Your car's paint isn't just for looks; it's a seal protecting the metal body from oxygen and water. When that seal is broken by a scratch, oxidation begins immediately. Once rust takes hold, it spreads underneath the surrounding paint like a cancer, bubbling up and destroying the panel from the inside out.
Structural Integrity
Rust isn't just cosmetic. If left unchecked on key components like the frame, rocker panels, or floorboards, it can weaken the structural integrity of your vehicle. In a collision, a rusted frame cannot absorb impact energy correctly, putting you at higher risk.
Save Money by Fixing it Early
Fixing a scratch costs a fraction of what it costs to replace a rusted-out door panel or fender. A simple touch-up or spot painting now can save you thousands later and keep your car's resale value high.