Rust inhibitor in the Luxury Wash

A rust inhibitor is applied to the underside.

Rust inhibitor, illustrative wash scene

What this stage does

Car wash rust inhibitors generally leave a thin film that helps keep water off exposed metal for a while after you drive out. In the Luxury wash it follows the under-car spray, so the salt is rinsed off before anything goes on.

Be realistic about what it is. It’s a top-up between washes, not a substitute for proper rustproofing, and it won’t undo rust that’s already started.

When it matters: Most useful during salt season, especially on older cars and trucks with exposed frames.

What a car wash rust inhibitor can and cannot do

Luxury