Keep That Rust At Bay!

Shawn Gilfillan • January 3, 2025

Rust is one of those things everybody knows of and has seen, but nobody likes. It is a car owner’s, and many others, worst enemy. Not only does it hurt the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle, but it can also lead to serious structural damage that is unsafe and can be costly to repair. Vehicles in the northeast and many other places are unfortunately plagued by rust usually only a few years after rolling off of the showroom floor, making owners question what preventative steps they can take to avoid this plague and keep their vehicles from rotting away as time passes. While keeping rust at bay can be tricky, there are steps you can take to slow the oxidation process down and prolong the life of the materials that hold your vehicle together. Ready for more?

Rust is the product of a chemical reaction that occurs when iron in various kinds of metal is exposed to water and oxygen. The process of this reaction taking place is called oxidation, and it creates iron oxide, more commonly known as rust. Unfortunately, it is permanent and can not be reversed. But, it can be slowed down and even prevented in some cases if the correct actions are taken. You may be asking yourself, how am I supposed to prevent rust on my vehicle if there is water and oxygen in the air all the time? It’s not easy to work against the elements, but it can be done. Here’s how.

One of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent rust is to regularly wash your vehicle. Salt, grime, dirt, and other contaminants cling to the undercarriage and other metal parts of your car. Exposed to moisture, these elements will speed up the rusting process. When washing your car, pay special attention to the underbody, wheel wells, and other areas that are often exposed to water and road salt. A pressure washer can help reach those hard-to-get areas. In an area where road salt is used to combat ice and snow, it’s especially important to wash your car more often during the winter months. Salt can be highly corrosive, and leaving it on your car will significantly increase the chances of rust formation.

Rust often begins in the most vulnerable areas of your vehicle, such as the wheel wells, door seams, and undercarriage. To keep these areas protected, use rustproofing or anti-corrosion spray products. There are a ton of options available on the market, from wax-based products to oil-based and so on. These products form a protective barrier against moisture and salt, which will prevent rust from developing. Professional undercoating services can be an excellent way to protect the underside of your vehicle. Especially if it is new and has not started rusting yet. This thick layer of coating is applied to shield metal parts from road salt, dirt, and water. You can also use rust inhibitors to treat small problem areas. These sprays can be applied to metal surfaces that are at risk of rusting.

Another way to help prevent rust from forming and spreading is to touch up any small chips or scratches in the paint. Exposed metal is susceptible to moisture and contaminants, which can cause it to corrode over time. Covering these areas with some touch up paint helps prevent the corrosion. Applying a layer of wax to your car's paint can also help prevent rust. The wax acts as an extra barrier of protection between the elements and the metal beneath. By repelling water and contaminants, wax reduces the chances of corrosion.

One of the lesser-known actions is to keep the vehicle’s drainage channels clear of debris.

Vehicles are designed with drainage channels to direct water away from the body and critical parts. Over time, these channels can become clogged with debris, preventing water from draining properly and causing it to pool in areas that are prone to rusting. They are usually located along the doors, sunroof, trunk hatch, and cowl, and can easily be cleaned with compressed air.

If your car sits for long periods without being driven, the lack of air circulation can also encourage rust to form, especially in damp environments. For example, we never recommend parking on grass for extended periods of time because it holds moisture far longer than concrete, pavement, or gravel. Taking your vehicle out for regular drives, even just a short trip, can help keep the moisture levels low and prevent rust from taking hold. Parking in a garage is ideal, but not everyone has access to a garage. Parking on a hard surface that doesn’t hold moisture and covering the vehicle with a car cover is the next best option.

Again, keeping the elements at bay is not easy, but it’s not impossible either. Staying on top of regular cleaning, using protective coatings, fixing paint chips, and keeping moisture at bay will make a significant impact on the life of your car and its value. It helps keep it looking good and stay structurally sound! If you're already dealing with a bit of rust, don't panic. Early intervention and a little extra care can often save you from a much bigger issue down the road. Keep an eye out for signs of rust, and make sure to take preventive measures as soon as possible. Your vehicle will thank you for it!

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Shawn Gilfillan is the dedicated owner of Automotive Magic in Kenvil, NJ. With over two decades of experience, Shawn has led his team in providing expert auto repair and service since 2003.

In 2022, Magic Lube & Rubber was born in Lake Hopatcong, NJ. Committed to fostering strong community ties and supporting team development, Shawn prioritizes customer satisfaction above all. As a proud family man and long-time resident of Roxbury, NJ, Shawn brings a blend of professionalism and warmth to his business.

Trust Shawn and his team for all your automotive needs with confidence and assurance.

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Drive Belts & Pulleys: The Unsung Heroes Under Your Hood

April 9, 2025

When it comes to car maintenance, there is a lot that comes into play. It can almost be overwhelming at times. Focus on common wear items like the battery, brakes, and tires are usually at the top of the list for most, but there are other items that need attention as well. Drive belts and pulleys are some of these items. These small components help keep your car running smoothly, and after a while they do wear out and need replacement. Unfortunately, failure can lead to a breakdown on the side of the road and leave you needing a tow. So what are they and what do they do? Let’s find out. What Are Drive Belts and Pulleys? Think of drive belts as super strong rubber bands that transfer power from your car’s engine to help run other important components. The pulleys are similar to any other pulley; they are just metal wheels that help guide and control the belts movement. However, these pulleys are attached to other engine accessories, and when the belt spins the pulleys they provide power to these other accessories. Together, they keep essential parts of your car operating. Most modern cars use a serpentine belt, a long, continuous belt that is wrapped around multiple pulleys that power multiple systems. Older vehicles might have V-belts, which are shorter and typically run a single component at a time. What Do Drive Belts and Pulleys Power? Drive belts are made from durable rubber and reinforced materials, but they don’t last forever. Over time, they can crack, stretch, fray, glaze, or even snap. Pulleys have a lifespan as well. They are subject to corrosion and the bearings can go bad and even seize up completely. Without drive belts and pulleys, several key systems in your car wouldn’t function properly. Here’s what they keep running and what can happen if they fail. Alternator – Powers your car’s electrical system and keeps the battery charged. If the belt breaks, your battery will eventually die, leaving you with a car that won’t start or may die while you are driving. Water Pump – Circulates coolant to prevent your engine from overheating. A broken belt could lead to severe engine damage due to overheating. Power Steering Pump – Makes turning the steering wheel easier. If the belt slips or breaks, steering your car instantly becomes much harder, especially at low speeds. Air Conditioning Compressor – Helps keep your car cool on hot days. While not as critical as other components, losing A/C can be uncomfortable. Drive Belts and Pulley Maintenance Drive belts and pulleys don’t necessarily require maintenance, but they should be inspected regularly. In some cases, a bad pulley can cause the belt to slip or even pop off of the pulley completely. There are a few things to look for that may tell you it’s time for replacement. Check for Cracks, Fraying, or Glazing – Look for visible signs of wear on the belt. If you see cracks, missing ribs, fraying, or a shiny, glazed appearance, it’s time for a replacement. Listen for Strange Noises – A worn out belt or pulley may slip on the pulleys and cause a high-pitched squealing, chirping, or rattling noise when you start the car or turn the wheel. Watch for Performance Issues – If your battery warning light comes on, your power steering feels heavy, or your car starts overheating, a belt or pulley could be the culprit. Have Regular Inspections – Most belts last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles, but checking them during routine maintenance can prevent unexpected failures. Replace Before It Fails – A worn belt may still work, but it could snap at any moment. Replacing it early saves you from the headache of a sudden breakdown. Final Thoughts Drive belts and pulleys may not be the most glamorous parts of your car, but they play an essential role in keeping your car running smoothly. Keeping them in good condition helps ensure your car stays reliable and safe. At Automotive Magic , we offer a bumper to bumper vehicle health inspection that includes checking belts and pulleys for wear. Our inspections are sent to you with photos, videos, and descriptions explaining any issues we find with your vehicle and their severity to keep you on the road with confidence. Stop by today or schedule an appointment, and let’s make sure your car is running at its best!

Rabbit Wheels Car Rental at Automotive Keeps You Moving!

March 25, 2025

Your Solution is Right Here! Automotive Magic offers on-site car rentals to help you stay on the move while your vehicle is being serviced? That’s right — Rabbit Wheels Car Rental Service is available at both locations, and it’s becoming a client favorite! Dropping off your vehicle for service can sometimes feel like hitting the pause button on your day and coordinating rides, waiting around, or juggling your schedule just to stay mobile? It’s a hassle. That’s exactly why we’ve been offering Rabbit Wheels — a convenient rental solution designed with your busy life in mind. While Rabbit Wheels has been available for a while, it's now truly taking off as more clients realize just how effortless it makes their service experience. When you're at Automotive Magic in Kenvil, the process is simple, seamless, and all about keeping you moving. Here’s How It Works: Drop off your car for service, and instead of worrying about how you’ll get around, you can make a reservation for a reliable Rabbit Wheels rental, available right on-site. No waiting. No extra stops. Just keys in hand and freedom to go about your day. Why Clients Love Rabbit Wheels: Speed: Quick and easy rental process — get back on the road fast. Reliability: Well-maintained vehicles ready when you are. Affordability: A cost-effective way to avoid downtime without breaking the bank. Whether you’re heading to work, tackling errands, or just want the freedom to come and go while your vehicle is in expert hands, Rabbit Wheels has got you covered. At Automotive Magic, we’re dedicated to giving our clients the best experience possible — and that means minimizing inconvenience while maximizing your time and flexibility. Let’s Keep You Moving! Don't let vehicle service disrupt your plans. Call today to make your reservation for both your service and your Rabbit Wheels rental — all in one easy step. Because when it comes to convenience, we’ve thought of everything — including the wheels to keep you going!