Jeep Wrangler Rust Proofing Guide – [Ways to Save Your SUV]

If you’re a proud Jeep Wrangler owner, dealing with rust can be a common practice. You may never just take your Jeep through the cleanest roads where there are no pebbles, salt, snow, or dust. For this, you need to ensure you take proper care of your off-road vehicle by preventing rust. 

There are several ways to perform Jeep Wrangler rust proofing, such as undercoating, applying the wax-like fluid film, using plastic fenders, and electrical rust proofing method. You should choose ways based on the area you often need to drive your jeep. 

We care about you and your Jeep Wrangler. That’s why we will share our expertise regarding all you should know about preventing rust on your Jeep. In particular, you’ll know what mostly causes rust on your Jeep and how to get rid of it. Carry on reading!

Why Jeep Wranglers Prone to Dust?

If you compare the Jeep Wrangler with other vehicles, this SUV is prone to dust a bit. But why? The core reason why the Jeep Wrangler tends to rust is because of the materials used to make its parts. 

In addition, how and where you mostly take your Jeep Wrangler can be another reason the Jeep Wrangler needs to be rustier.

Now, let’s first clarify the components that make the Jeep rusty. Most of the materials used to make the parts of the Jeep Wrangler are made of iron alloy, which we hardly see being used on other passenger cars.

In most cases, rust is a cause of oxidation. When the atmospheric oxygen and moisture come in touch with the iron alloy, it simply causes rust. Moreover, a reaction occurs between the oxygen, water, and iron alloy, resulting in rust.

Additionally, the high ground clearance of a Jeep Wrangler makes it easier for dust and dirt to accumulate underneath the vehicle.

In terms of other vehicles or passenger cars, as they are cheaply constructed, there is less chance of rust. 

Besides, as the owners of the Jeep Wrangler tend to drive their SUV roughly, it can be a possible cause of helping rust to take place. You must have an idea about the extreme conditions of the challenging roads in some areas.

Read Also: Jeep Wrangler Won’t Start But Battery Is Good? (6 Easy Fix)

Why Is Jeep Wrangler Rust Proofing Important? 

There is not a single Jeep regular owner who wants to see rust on their vehicle. If you desire to drive your Jeep for a long time without significant hustles and get the most out of it, you should proceed to rust-proofing. 

Some of the other reasons why you should prevent rust on your Jeep are;

• To avoid major damage.
• To ease the maintenance.
• To increase the resale value of your Jeep.

To Avoid Damaged 

Yes, extreme rust can more often damage the parts of your Jeep Wrangler. Don’t assume that your Jeep is an off-road vehicle; that simply means it is resistant to dirt and dust. If you don’t take care of your Jeep Wrangler regularly, the rust will build up and cause significant parts damage. 

Rust on any parts of your Jeep can cause damage. So, don’t think there will be an issue only with your undercarriage. Somewhat, side panels can also be affected and damaged as well. 

So, rust prevention is essential to keep your off-road vehicle in good condition.

To Ease the Maintenance

It doesn’t make any difference how careful you are with your Jeep. With the passage of time and for several reasons, your Jeep Wrangler needs maintenance. Here, maintenance refers to the maintenance of the parts. 

In this case, if there is extreme rust on the parts of your Jeep, it will be a lot more challenging for you or the mechanic to examine and fix the issues of those parts.  And this also means you spend more money and will take time to repair the components. It would be like a fate worse than death. 

The worst thing, in this case, is you might not be able to fix a minor issue if you care due to rust on even a single part. 

To Increase Resale value

You can’t get the expected selling price of your Jeep if it is full of extreme rust. You don’t know when you might feel the importance of selling your Jeep Wrangler. Therefore, in this case, it’s better to take measures to prevent dust on the jeep to ensure decent resale value. 

Read Also: Jeep Wrangler Oil Type And Capacity: All Years Included

Where Should You Look For Rust On Your Jeep Wrangler? 

Now, this is important as you tend to start the task of Jeep Wrangler proofing. When looking for rust on your Jeep Wrangler, you should check several key areas to ensure that it is not present. Pay close attention to the undercarriage, frame, and fenders, as these areas are most susceptible to rust.

Areas around latches, hinges, side panels, and weather stripping should be inspected for trapping moisture. They can create an environment for rust to develop.

In addition, make sure you also check the back of your Jeep, which some Jeep owners often avoid. Sometimes, rough rust might be below the hinges and in other places. 

If you can access the Jeep’s interior, inspect the floor pans, footwells, and storage compartments for any signs of rust.

Read Also: How To Use A Floor Jack On A Jeep Wrangler

How to Prevent Rust on Your Jeep Wrangler? 

To prevent rust on your Jeep Wrangler, it is essential to maintain a regular maintenance schedule. Preventing Jeep rust is possible in many ways, but not all are effective. We will discuss the methods that are the most effective.

You can always go for the professionals for rust-proofing your Jeep. However, we will share tips on how you can rust-proof your vehicle on your own.

Don’t Forget to Wash Your Jeep Wrangler Frequently

When you take your Jeep through the toughest of roads, make sure you clean it often. You can take your car to a high-class car wash center, or you can do the job at home in your garage. But avoid automatic car washes, as they can damage the protective layer of your Jeep.

While washing your car, it is ideal to use an undercarriage washer to clean the underside of your vehicle. It is wise to use this washer anytime you come back from a long trip to get rid of all the mud, salt, dust, etc.

Here goes the most basic but important thing you can do when it comes to proofing your Jeep Wrangler rust. 

You Must Apply Wax

If you are looking for the most effective way to prevent dust on your Jeep, applying wax is something we recommend especially. There are multiple benefits of waxing your Jeep. Prevention of wax is one of the key benefits. 

In addition, the wax forms a thin layer of protection for the clear coat of paint covering the body. And thus, it efficiently prevents rust.

In addition, the wax takes proper take of your Jeep Wrangler paint as it protects the jeep’s body from harmful elements.  

Besides, It not only looks good on the frame but also makes the frame look brand new.

When applying wax, the Fluid Film comes to the top. According to many Jeep Wrangler owners, the Fluid Film is highly efficient regarding rust and corrosion protection.

It is more like a protective coating, a lanolin-based wax, and is supposed to last pretty long on your Jeep’s frame (both inner and outer). 

Well, you can use other powerful rust protectors as well.

Never Miss Apply Undercoating 

Undercoating can be a lifesaver for your Jeep as, in most cases, extreme rust takes place on the undercarriage.

Applying undercoating ensures that there are protective layers on the parts of your Jeep Wrangler’s important components beneath the car. 

The rubberized texture of the undercoating available on the market provides an effective barrier against rust.  Besides, it can also help to keep the metal surface under your jeep in good condition for longer.

When buying undercoating for rust protection, you can choose anyone you think is the best. If rust is underneath your Jeep, remove it first and then spray the undercoating. 

Keep Your Jeep in a Garage or Covered Area

Do not take this lightly. Always keep your car in a garage or covered area to protect it from the elements, such as rain and snow, and damage caused by falling objects or flying debris.

This will also help keep your car’s interior in good condition as it will be less exposed to the sun’s UV rays.

Read Also: Jeep Wrangler Won’t Start But Battery Is Good? (6 Easy Fix)

Final Thoughts 

While choosing rust protectors for your Jeep Wrangler, select the best ones from them. It is best to perform this task at least once a year or more often if you live in an area with a harsh climate.

In order to keep your Jeep Wrangler in its best condition, it is essential to perform rustproofing on a consistent basis. This includes routinely checking and treating the underbody of the vehicle, along with any other areas that may be prone to rust. 

If it is unnecessary, avoid driving over snow, salt, pebbles, and other materials that can cause corrosion. Significantly, the Upper Midwest and some regions of the Northeast.