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Can You Rust Proof an Electric Vehicle (Tesla/EV) in Calgary? Safety Guide

By Amro
Sep 07, 2024
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Rust proofing safety guide for electric vehicles

High Voltage Warning

EVs require specialized knowledge to rust proof safely. Do not take your Tesla to a generic quick-lube shop.

There is a myth that because Teslas and EVs use aluminum body panels, they don't rust. This is false. The underside of your EV is a mix of steel, iron, and aluminum fasteners that are highly susceptible to galvanic corrosion, especially in Calgary.

The "Galvanic" Rust Threat in Calgary

When you bolt an aluminum control arm to a steel subframe and add salt water (an electrolyte), you create a battery. This causes "Galvanic Corrosion," which can seize bolts and weaken suspension faster than standard rust.

Rust proofing acts as an insulator, preventing the salt water from bridging the gap between these dissimilar metals.

Our EV Rust Proofing Protocol

At PPF Pros, we have a strict safety protocol for Electric Vehicles:

ComponentActionReason
Orange HV CablesMASKED / AVOIDEDPetroleum products can degrade cable insulation.
Battery Pack CoverCLEANED ONLYUsually composite or aluminum, needs no coating.
Subframes (Steel)HEAVY COATCritical structural point prone to rust.
Suspension ArmsWAX COATPrevents seizing of alignment bolts.
Frunk/Trunk LidsINTERNAL WAXPrevents "lip rust" common on Model 3s.

The EV "Undertray" Problem on Calgary Roads

EVs have flat aerodynamic plastic trays underneath to improve range.

The Salt Trap

Salt brine gets above these plastic trays and sits there, unable to wash away. It rots the mounting bolts and frame rails invisibly.

A proper EV rust proofing involves removing these aero shields (or using extension wands) to coat the metal hidden above them. Most quick-spray shops just spray the plastic, which does nothing.

Conclusion: Protect Your EV in Calgary

Your EV is a high-tech machine, but it still lives in a low-tech environment (salt and mud). Protect the investment. Book an EV-Specific assessment.

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