Consumer Bulletin:
Response to Inquiries Regarding Electronic Rustproofing Claims

We have had inquiries from consumers about some auto-dealer and repair-shop offerings of so-called "electronic rustproofing" devices. While conventional sealant products like Ziebart's offer proven effective rust protection for autos, consumers are advised to beware of any "electronic black-box" methods offered.

FTC Ruling Regarding Electronic Rustproofing
In March 1996, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) ruled against claims for an electronic rust product called "Rust Evader." The product, that connects to the vehicles battery under the car hood, was claimed to prevent rust in autos through cathodic action. The FTC ruled that the Rust Evader Corporation deceptively represented salt-water demonstrations and other tests as proof that the product would protect motor vehicles from corrosion. Then-president David McCready was barred from future use of the names "Rust Evader" or "Rust Buster" for this or similar devices and from claiming that they prevent automobile corrosion.

Is Automobile Rust Protection Really Needed?
Consumers should know that there is no such thing as a steel vehicle that is rust free, even with today's advanced auto-industry technology. Rust in autos has been slowed significantly, but not eliminated, as any materials engineer will attest. Steel vehicles exposed to salt and water will still rust, but it now takes a few years longer for the rust to break through than in the 1980s.
While special rust protection may not be necessary for short-term lease cars or in areas not subject to salt air and humidity, some situations make it a wise investment:

1. If you plan to keep your vehicle for more than three or four years, pass it on to another member of your family, or are considering buying the vehicle at the end of the lease.
2. If you drive in areas where salt is in the air and the air is very humid, such as close along a warm-weather seacoast or in the tropics.
3. If you drive in areas the are susceptible to flooding, (either saltwater or heavily contaminated water).

What Kind of Rust Protection Does Work?
Effective rust protection requires:

1. A quality rust-inhibiting sealant, such as Ziebart's, that coats the inside surfaces of the metal to prevent contact by water and salt.
2. An applicator who has internal-construction specifications of your vehicle and custom tooling to assure coating of all rust-prone areas, especially seams, joints and welds inside body panels and other boxed-in components.
3. Some provision to renew flex-point and abrasion-prone areas annually, or the vehicle could still rust in those areas, despite your precautions.

You should insist on all of these elements when purchasing aftermarket rust-protection, or you will not get your money's worth.

Ziebart has more than 40 years experience protecting, enhancing and maintaining the interior and exterior of cars and trucks. Its services include professional detailing; paint and fabric protection; rust protection; window tint; electronic systems; and an array of other accessories.

Ziebart International Corp. was founded in 1959 and is headquartered in Troy, Mich. It has franchised approximately 500 stores in 44 countries. For more information on Ziebart, access its web site at ziebart.com