The annual cost of motor vehicle corrosion in the USA was estimated to be $23.4 Billion (Final Report FHWA-RD-01-156, 2001).
Automobile corrosion issues were first reported in the mid 1950s. Initially, automobiles were constructed using iron and steel - but there has been a shift toward lighter materials because the fuel efficiency improves as the weight of a car decreases.
A number of years ago the public became aware of corrosion problems in the automotive industry, as rust was visible on car bodies and frames. This problem has been reduced, and significant corrosion of car bodies is unlikely to develop in less than 10 years.
Currently the rust on automobiles is not generally visible to the public. This does not indicate that all corrosion issues have been solved, however, as corrosion is still a concern in break systems - in fuel systems - and in the numerous electronic components in cars.
