Anti-Corrosion Protection

The anti-corrosion system includes a combination of special steels, chemical treatment, and surface coatings that provide a barrier against corrosion.

1. Zinc-coated steels, both single and double-sided, are used in sensitive rust-prone areas such as rocker panels, hood and fuel filler door.

2. PVC ribbon sealers between the hem flanges around doors and hood prevent the entry of water and minimize electrolytic action.

3. The entire body is treated in a phosphate bath. The bath provides a coating that acts as a corrosion inhibitor and also provides a mechanical bond for further surface coatings.

4. The complete body is undercoated using a cathodic electrocoat process. This process provides an electromechanically bonded, corrosion-resistant coating that penetrates body joints not reached by conventional spray or dip techniques.

5. Underbody areas, including the floorpan and wheelhouses, are coated with PVC or bitumastic material that resists stone abrasion.

6. Cavity wax, a tough petroleum-based product, is injected into hard-to-reach areas, including the lower interior sections of doors and the front and rear edges of the hood.

7. A coating of primer is applied to all exterior panels to build a thick protective film and provide a smooth surface for further color coats.

8. Exterior areas subject to stone damage, such as the front fascia (bumper cover) and the lower fender and door areas, are sprayed with a tough, abrasion-resistant PVC coating.

9. Weather-resistant body color paint is applied to complete the sheet metal protection.

10. Additional anti-corrosion protection is provided by:

    • plastic splash shields to protect the wheelhouse sheet metal from stone damage.
    • stoneguards fitted to the front and rear wheel arches and adjacent door areas.
    • insulation comprised of urethane, PVC, and recycled felt.