How to Keep Your Land Rover Accessories Clean and Rust-Free
There’s something
about the unmistakable roar of a Land Rover engine on South African soil that
stirs the soul.
Whether you’re
tackling rugged terrains in the Drakensberg or cruising the coastlines of the
Western Cape, one thing’s certain, your Land Rover deserves nothing but the
best care.
At Trax Parts and Accessories, we know
first-hand what Landy life looks like. We’re not just another aftermarket
seller.
We’re a family-run,
authentic, trusted, and selective business born from sheer passion.
That’s why we’ve put together this exclusive guide for keeping your Land Rover
accessories clean, rust-free, and ready for whatever adventure lies ahead.
Why Rust is the Silent Enemy of Your Land Rover Accessories
Rust is more than
just an eyesore. It’s a destructive force that silently eats away at your
investment, weakening structural integrity, compromising performance, and
reducing your vehicle’s resale value. South Africa’s diverse climate, from the
salty coastal air to the humid Lowveld, can accelerate corrosion if left
unchecked.
With the right
care, rust is 100% preventable.
Step 1: Choose Quality Accessories From a Trusted Supplier
Before we even get
to maintenance, it’s vital to start with accessories made from high-quality,
rust-resistant materials. Not all aftermarket parts are created equal. Some are
built to last. Others… well, not so much.
At Trax
Parts and Accessories, we’re proud to
be a pioneer in sourcing top-tier parts globally, including stainless
steel bolt-on kits, aluminium roof racks and powder-coated exterior mods. We
only supply components that stand up to the demands of African driving.
When shopping around, you should look for parts labelled with terms like “marine-grade stainless
steel”, “powder-coated”, or “anodised”, these treatments
provide natural rust resistance.
Step 2: Regular Cleaning – Not Just a Weekend Job
You love getting your Defender dirty, but leaving it that
way? That’s where problems begin.
How Often Should You Clean a Land Rover?
Ideally, every two
weeks or after off-roading in wet, muddy, or coastal environments.
What You’ll Need:
·
A
high-pressure hose or pressure washer (on a low setting to avoid damage)
·
Car
shampoo (avoid household detergents because they strip protective coatings)
·
Soft-bristle
brush
·
Microfibre
cloths
·
A
rust-preventive spray (more on that later)
When cleaning, you
should do the following:
·
Start
with a rinse – Remove grit,
mud, and salt.
·
Soap
up – Focus on accessories
like bumpers, racks, sidesteps, and tow hooks.
·
Brush
hard-to-reach areas –
Especially bolt heads and seams.
·
Dry
thoroughly – Trapped
moisture is a breeding ground for rust.
And don’t forget
the undercarriage. Salt and grime collect underneath, particularly if you’ve
been near the coast or through muddy trails.
Step 3: Rust Prevention Made Easy
Cleaning is just
the first step. You also need to make sure that you prevent the rust from forming
in the first place, which means having a few of the best rust-prevention products.
You can ask us for a few recommendations.
Step 4: Smart Storage Means Rust Avoidance
When not out conquering the
wild, how you store your Landy matters:
·
Use a breathable cover
– Avoid plastic tarps. They trap moisture.
·
Park under cover – Even a carport
reduces exposure to rain and sun.
·
Avoid long-term grass parking –
It increases ground moisture and accelerates undercarriage rust.
If you’re storing accessories
like roof tents or racks separately, make sure they’re cleaned, treated, and
stored in a dry, ventilated space.
Step 5: Keep an Eye on Problem Areas
Stay vigilant. Even the
best-maintained vehicle can develop small rust spots if left unchecked.
Regular Inspection Points:
·
Underbody & chassis rails
·
Wheel arches & inner fenders
·
Roof rack mounts & brackets
·
Door hinges & handles
·
Tow bar fittings
Use a torch and check these
spots monthly. If you see a bubble in the paint or a reddish-brown spot, act
quickly—remove the rust with a wire brush, treat with a rust converter, and
recoat with touch-up paint or rust sealant.
Step 6: Reinvest in Your Ride
Remember, your Land Rover is
more than transport; it’s a statement, a lifestyle and a companion on the road
less travelled.
By using exclusive, high-end accessories and
giving them the love they deserve, you’re not just preserving value, you’re
ensuring reliability for years to come.
With Trax Parts and Accessories, you don’t
need to compromise. We’ve done the hard work of finding the world’s most
durable, premium-quality parts, bringing them right to your fingertips through
our easy-to-use,
secure online platform. No guesswork. No grey imports. Just authentic
performance.
Clean Gear, Clear Mind
Looking after your Land Rover
accessories isn’t just about rust. It’s about pride. Purpose. Protecting your
investment and keeping your vehicle in peak condition for the long haul.
So, whether you’re a weekend
trailblazer or a full-time overlander, these tips will ensure your mods stay as
tough and reliable as the Defender itself.
Take a
look at our latest arrivals at Trax
Parts and Accessories, South Africa’s home of selective, trusted upgrades
for every Defender enthusiast.
Our team of Landy lovers is here to help you find the
perfect part and keep your adventure rolling strong.
Because when you drive a Land Rover, you’re not just on the
road, you’re part of a legacy.
