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Nobody likes a smelly car. If you’ve cleaned your car but just can’t get that rancid smell to go away, you’ll want to consider a good car odor eliminator. Finding the right one depends on what you’re dealing with and your personal preferences. However, we’ve taken some of the leg work out of finding the right odor eliminator for your car.

Things to Consider in Car Odor Eliminators
With many smells to eliminate, and many products on the market, you’ll want to make a few considerations before grabbing an odor eliminator for your car.
Type of Odor Eliminators
There are several different types of odor eliminators to use in your car, depending on much time or effort you’re willing to put in, or how aggressive of an odor you’re facing.
Spot Sprays
Odor eliminators that come premixed in a spray bottle make it quick and easy to get down to business. You can spot spray affected areas, such as in the case of pet accidents, or you can hit your entire car to zap lingering odors like those from smoke. Just be mindful of the directions – some sprays don’t mix well with leather and plastics, and can cause damage to certain surfaces.
Concentrates
These are concentrated odor eliminators meant to be diluted in water. With concentrates, you can customize the strength, making them great for dealing with harsh odors. Concentrates are also often more economical in the long run.
For instance, the Chemical Guys New Car Smell Odor Eliminator makes up to 2 full gallons worth of spray. Using it in moderation, it could easily last you a full year.
Foggers
These set-and-forget aerosol sprays are one of the easiest and quickest ways to freshen your car up and eliminate foul odors. They are also perhaps the most dangerous – with foggers, you’ll want to make sure your car is clear of pets and people. When activating a fogger’s locking trigger, make sure you also keep it pointed away from you.
Vent and Duct Aerosols
Foggers work great for your whole car, including your vents and ducts. But if you’ve got a problem in your car’s AC system, you might specifically opt for a vent and duct odor eliminator. These aerosols are meant to go into your vents inside your car, as well as your air intake outside the car. They usually come with a straw that helps you get down inside your vents.
Gel
A gel that sits passively to eliminate odors around the clock. These are useful if you smoke in your car, but you don’t want your car smelling like stale smoke. They also work great as a general air freshener that eliminates odors.
Charcoal Bags
Another great passive option, they utilize charcoal’s absorbent properties to suck up odors and trap them. These are also non-toxic, environmentally safe, and have no smell, making them great if you’re sensitive to smells.
Powder
Powder odor eliminators are simple products you sprinkle onto your fabrics and then vacuum up. With some powders, you can also mix them with water and use them as a spot spray.
Type of Odors
Odor eliminators have one job and one job only: get rid of that gnarly stench in your car. Next you need to consider what odors you’re dealing with. Here are a few common types of odors:
Pet Smells
This is a catch-all for any odors caused by your pets, from wet dog smell to vomit and accidents. If you’ve got an organic mess in your carpet or seats, you’ll seriously want to consider a product specifically meant to tackle these messes, like Rocco & Roxie Supply Professional Strength Stain and Odor Eliminator. It’s formulated with special enzymes that will take out stains and eat odors caused by pets.
Smoke
Stale smoke odors are the worst, especially if you’re a non-smoker. Most odor eliminators will tackle smoke odors to some degree. But if you want to be extra sure you’ll rid your car of that horrendous stench, you might want to consider something specifically made for smoke odors, such as Armor All’s Smoke X Odor Eliminator.
If you’re a current smoker, but want to keep your car smelling as fresh as possible, you can also try using the Ozium Smoke & Odors Eliminator Gel. This stuff works passively around the clock to help keep your car smelling fresh, and lasts for months.
Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew are an unfortunate side effect of high humidity. You might find mold and mildew in your air ducts, especially if you commonly run your air conditioner. If you’ve isolated the smell to your vents and ducts, you’ll either want an aerosol fogger or an air duct cleaner like the Armor All Car Vent and Duct Odor Eliminator.
Safety
All odor eliminators can be safe as long as you use them as directed. Still, you might want to opt for a non-toxic option to avoid potential health problems and disasters.
If you’re looking for something that’s non-toxic and environmentally friendly, you might want to check out Van Den Heuvels R86 Industrial Odor Eliminator.
Suitable Surfaces
Your car’s interior is made up of rubber, vinyl, plastic, fabrics, and maybe even leather. With so many types of surfaces, you’ll want to be sure to choose an odor eliminator that’s safe for the surfaces you’re treating.
Some sprays are meant for fabrics only, and can damage the plastic, leather, or vinyl components. Others are safe for all water-safe surfaces. Be sure you’re grabbing the right stuff for the job so you don’t ruin your car trying to tame foul odors.
Now, keeping in mind some of the basics, let’s look at some of the best car odor eliminators we’ve found.

Top 10 Best Car Odor Eliminators 2021
1. Best Overall Odor Eliminator: Febreze Eliminator Extra Strength + Unstopables

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Why we like it: From a reputable company, it’s rather inexpensive, works great, and can neutralize the toughest odors.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Spot spray
Type of odors: All
Safety: Safe when dry
Surfaces: Fabrics
A staple in many households, Febreze is well-known for being one of the best odor eliminators around. Formulated to attract and neutralize odors, this package is a double-whammy for foul odors in your car.
It includes a bottle of Febreze Fabric Extra Strength and Febreze Fabric “UnStopables,” a more concentrated formula. Both bottles contain a proprietary formula that is safe for all fabrics except leather, suede, and silk. However, be sure to do a test spray in an inconspicuous spot if you’re worried about potential water spotting or other issues.
In addition to eliminating foul odors in your car, Febreze is also great for around the house. Being versatile and relatively inexpensive, it’s a safe bet and works effectively on most foul odors that linger.
Both sprays have a strong fresh linen scent that will fade as they dry. If you’re sensitive to chemical fragrances, this could be a little too strong for you – especially the “UnStopables.” In that case, you might consider spraying when you plan to be away from your car for a while, and then briefly air it out before you get in again.
If you’d rather opt for a more natural smell, you might be interested in checking out the Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator. It doesn’t contain the same odor-trapping chemicals Febreze includes, but it’s a powerful natural cleaner capable of eliminating odors while leaving a fresh orange scent behind.
Nevertheless, Febreze is a common household name for a reason. Whether you’re trying to tackle old smoke and pet odors, or you just want an effective multi-use odor eliminator for your car and home, Febreze is a solid choice.

Pros
Tackles many types of foul odors
Safe on nearly all fabrics
Multiple bottles of different scents
Inexpensive
Fresh linen scent

Cons
Fragrance may be too strong and artificial for some people

2. Best Premium Odor Eliminator: Angry Orange Ready-to-Use Citrus Pet Odor Eliminator

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Why we like it: It’s natural, non-toxic, biodegradable, and makes your car smell like an orange orchard.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Spot spray
Type of odors: All
Safety: Biodegradable and non-toxic
Surfaces: Most water-safe surfaces
Angry Orange’s Ready-to-Use Pet Odor Eliminator is a great choice if you want to eliminate tough odors, or just freshen your car up. Despite the fact that it’s marketed as a pet odor eliminator, it’s a great all-around odor eliminator strong enough to work on smelly pet accidents.
The smell is insanely strong, yet natural and fairly pleasant. You should be prepared for an orange bomb after you spray it, especially if you’re putting it in a small, enclosed area like your car. However, given time, it will fade, and you can always further dilute it to lessen the intensity of the smell.
If you have a sensitive nose, Angry Orange may be a bit overwhelming. If you’d rather opt for a natural odor eliminator that doesn’t have a smell, you might want to consider the Basic Concepts Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bags. However, you should also keep in mind that – unlike Angry Orange – charcoal bags are a passive solution and won’t attack the source of foul odors.
Angry Orange is safe for nearly all water-safe surfaces and safe around children and pets. However, you’ll want to be careful with plastic. Concentrated orange oil can melt through polystyrene. This bottle isn’t a pure orange oil concentrate, but it could still cause some issues with clouding on your car’s dashboard. As such, you should always do an inconspicuous test spray before going nuts with it.
If you love the smell of citrus, or you just want a natural and potent alternative to the likes of Febreze and other artificial odor eliminator sprays, this stuff is the perfect solution for you!

Pros
Great for all-around use
Smells great and all-natural
Works especially well on pet odors
Safe for most surfaces

Cons
Smell may be overwhelming for some
May not be safe to spray on plastics

3. Best Budget Odor Eliminator: Chemical Guys AIR_101_16 New Car Smell Odor Eliminator

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Why we like it: Aiming to give your car that new car smell, this stuff will last forever, making up to 2 gallons of spray.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Concentrate
Type of odors: All
Safety: May irritate eyes
Surfaces: Fabric (not safe for use on plastic)
Sometimes a little can go a long way, and with the Chemical Guys New Car Smell Odor Eliminator, that certainly holds true. At a highly competitive price, this small 16-ounce bottle of concentrate makes up to 2 gallons of spray that will last for a long time, making it a highly economical choice.
It won’t just mask odors either. Containing odor-fighting enzymes, it seeks to eliminate odors at the source, leaving behind an odor that’s supposed to make your car smell as if you just drove it off the lot. It also contains enzymes that will break down odor-causing molecules, so you can be sure it won’t just mask odors.
Like Angry Orange, this stuff has a powerful smell. That means you’ll either want to dilute it as per the instructions, or go light – one spray of the concentrate under your floor mats should be more than enough, and can even be overwhelming if you’re sensitive to smell.
Since this spray from Chemical Guys aims to mimic the freshly-tanned leather and clean rubber and plastic of a new car, it’s going to have an artificial chemical smell. If you’d rather a more natural scent, you might consider something like Angry Orange, an equally potent natural solution.
This spray is meant for fabric only, and it can damage your dashboard. You’ll want to avoid spraying it on your dash or in the air. You’ll also want to give the spray some time to set and dry – we recommend spraying when you’ve got a few hours to let it set.
Whether you’re combating stale smoke odors or just looking to keep your car smelling crisp, this is a great choice for keeping your car smelling as close to new as you can get.

Pros
Inexpensive
Concentrate means it will last for a long time
Odor-fighting enzymes to eliminate odors at the source
Strong smell will overpower foul odors

Cons
Chemical smell can be overwhelming
Can cause damage to dash if used inappropriately

4. Best Pet Odor Eliminator: Rocco & Roxie Supply Professional Strength Stain and Odor Eliminator

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Why we like it: Formulated with enzymes, it will break down organic odors at the source and eliminate stains as well.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Spot spray
Type of odors: Organic/pet odors
Safety: Safe when dry
Surfaces: All water-safe surfaces
If you frequently travel with your pets, then you’ll want to pick up a bottle of Rocco & Roxie Supply’s Professional Strength Stain and Odor Eliminator. One of the best pet stain and odor eliminators on the market, it’s great for combating foul pet odors like wet dog smell and pet accidents. The company also offers a 100% money-back guarantee.
Containing a powerful blend of enzymatic bacteria that will tackle the worst organic odors and stains, it’s safe for use around pets and children. It’s also safe on virtually all surfaces, and is certified by the Carpet and Rug Institute as safe for all carpets.
Keep in mind that this product has a strong fragrance. The smell of this spray might not be as strong as some of the other products we’ve listed, but just know it’s not totally scent-free. However, the smell fades as it dries, and it sure beats foul odors from pet accidents and the like.
If you’re looking to rid your vehicle of smoke odors, this product may help. However, the company recommends you use a product designed for smoke odors – something like the Armor All Smoke X Car Odor Eliminator is a perfect solution for dealing with smoke odors.
Other than potentially not working for smoke odors, the only real issue we see with this product is the price, which is rather high compared to other products on this list. Still, given its effectiveness and stellar money-back guarantee, you don’t really have anything to lose.

Pros
Works great on pet odors and stains
Safe for nearly all surfaces
Certified safe for all carpets

Cons
Strong smell
High price
May not work on smoke odors

5. Best Aerosol Odor Eliminator: Meguiar’s G16402 Whole Car Odor Eliminator

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Why we like it: This little can can clear your whole car of foul odors, reaching hard-to-reach spots, with the press of a button.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Fogger
Type of odors: All
Safety: Flammable and toxic (direct exposure)
Surfaces: All
Since 1901, Meguiar’s has been making car care products for car lover’s the world over. If you want to deodorize your whole car quickly and easily, then Meguiar’s Whole Car Odor Eliminator is a good choice for you.
This little can of aerosol makes it effortless to have your car smelling like new. With a locking trigger on the can, you can simply set it and forget it (for 15 minutes). After letting your car air out for an additional 10-15 minutes, it’s now ready to drive, free of the foul odors you’re looking to rid your car of.
You won’t have to worry about this causing any adverse reactions with the interior of your car. It won’t stain fabrics or ruin leather, plastics, or other components of your car’s interior.
Like other odor eliminating products that aim to emulate that “new car smell,” this stuff might not hit the nail on the head. However, it does leave a fresh and clean smell behind, getting into hard-to-reach places that other odor eliminators can’t.
Aside from personal smell preferences, there are really only 2 downsides to this product. First, you should absolutely not have any living things in your car when you spray it, as it’s highly toxic if you’re directly exposed to it. It’s also flammable, so you’ll want to keep it away from sparks and flames, and store it in a cool area.
That aside, it’s not as versatile as other odor eliminators like the Febreze odor eliminators. If you want something you can use in your car and home, then this might not be right for you. But of course, Febreze is generally made for fabrics only, making Meguiar’s an excellent choice if you’re looking to make your entire car smell good.

Pros
Works quickly
Simple to use
Works in hard-to-reach places
Leaves a fresh and clean smell

Cons
Can be toxic and flammable
Not as versatile as other odor eliminators

6. Best Fragrance-Free Odor Eliminator: Basic Concepts Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bags

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Why we like it: Non-toxic, odor-free, and easy to use. You can set them and forget them, and these bags will last for 2 full years.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Charcoal bag
Type of odors: All
Safety: Non-toxic
Surfaces: All
If you’re sensitive to smells, it can be hard to find a good odor eliminator that doesn’t carry an overwhelming odor itself. However, the Basic Concepts Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bags are a great fragrance-free odor eliminator that are great for small spaces like your vehicle. They’re also natural and non-toxic, making them great for anyone looking for a natural alternative to chemicals and sprays.
Made with activated bamboo charcoal, these bags sit idly by and adsorb odors that permeate the air. They do so by trapping the odors within the confines of the hundreds of square meters of surface area the activated charcoal has, thereby blocking odors from reaching your nose.
Of course, this means these bags aren’t good for taking care of odors at their source. As such, they aren’t great at tackling particularly offensive odors that need to be dealt with immediately, such as pet urine.
Rather, charcoal bags like these are better at controlling perpetual odors like smoke or mildew, or in situations where they’ll have time to work (which can take a while, depending on the severity and source of the odors).
They also work great in combination with other odor eliminators. Sprays that tackle odors at the source, such as Rocco & Roxie Supply’s Professional Strength Stain and Odor Eliminator, are great at zapping smells from the source, while these bags can help lessen the intensity of the spray’s fragrance.
Given that these bags are useful for up to 2 years, they are a worthy consideration as both a stand-alone and a supplemental purchase. They won’t harm your car or your loved ones, and they’ll stop your car from smelling bad.

Pros
Natural and non-toxic
Fragrance-free
Works for up to 2 years

Cons
Won’t eliminate odors at their source
Can take a while to work

7. Best Odor Eliminating Gel: Ozium 804281-4 Smoke & Odors Eliminator Gel

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Why we like it: Made by a reputable brand, this works around the clock, great against recurring odors, and lasts for months.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Gel
Type of odors: Smoke
Safety: Non-flammable
Surfaces: All
Ozium is a popular odor eliminator, and the Ozium Smoke and Odors Eliminator Gel is a great way to keep your car smelling great for months. It deals with foul odors by attaching to airborne bacteria, odors and contaminants as it evaporates. Made to eliminate smoke and other lingering odors, it leaves a fresh fragrance in its midst.
Since this is a passive air eliminator, like Basic Concepts’ Charcoal Bags, it works around the clock to slowly eliminate odors. Likewise, it can be placed anywhere in your car to effectively eliminate odors wherever they are. Unlike charcoal, however, it will eventually reach the source of odors as the gel slowly evaporates and permeates the air.
This gel has a very synthetic, cleaner-type smell. If you’re sensitive to chemical smells, you might be better off going with something like the charcoal bags. However, they do have an adjustable vent cap. This allows you to control the amount of fragrance emitted from the can, giving you some control over the smell.
Because the gel is formulated for use in cars, it won’t melt in high temperatures that are common in vehicles during warm weather. It will, however, evaporate at a quicker rate in high temperatures, meaning the duration of their effectiveness will depend on how warm your car typically gets.
Overall, given their effectiveness on foul odors and their long-lasting effects, they’re perfect for taming recurring foul odors or just keeping your vehicle smelling clean.

Pros
Works for months
Adjustable vent caps
Heat-resistant gel won’t melt in high temperatures
Works great on recurring odors like smoke

Cons
Won’t last as long in high temperatures
Works slowly to eliminate odors
Has a strong synthetic smell

8. Best Odor Eliminator for Smoke: Armor All Smoke X Car Odor Eliminator

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Why we like it: Made specifically for smoke odors, it will take away smoke smells quickly and effectively.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Fogger
Type of odors: Smoke
Safety: Flammable and toxic (direct exposure)
Surfaces: All
Whether you’re an ex-smoker or you’ve just bought a car from someone who smokes, you’ll find that smoke smells linger long after the smoke has cleared. Armor All’s Smoke X Car Odor Eliminator fogger quickly eliminates lingering smoke odors for good.
Unlike spot sprayers, this will work well to reach smells throughout your entire car, including inside your vents and ducts. It’s also easier to use than traditional odor eliminating sprays – simply trigger the can’s locking mechanism, turn on your air conditioner and set it to recirculate, and let the eliminator work for 15 minutes.
Like other odor eliminating foggers, this stuff is toxic if inhaled. You’ll want to remember to give your car time to air out after using it, and keep plants, pets and people clear of the vehicle during use.
While this stuff works great on combating foul odors, it won’t work as well on other foul odors as it does on smoke odors. It also has a scent that’s reminiscent of an 80s cologne, which certainly isn’t for everyone.
If you still want to go the fogger route, you might want to consider using Meguiar’s Whole Car Odor Eliminator. However, Meguiar’s eliminator is not specifically formulated to work on smoke odors, so it might not be as effective as Armor All’s solution for eliminating smoke odors.
If you’re specifically combating smoke odors, you’ll certainly want to give Armor All’s Smoke X Odor eliminator a try. Given it’s relatively low cost, it’s worth a try if you want to stop your car smelling like a stale ashtray.

Pros
Specially formulated to combat smoke odors
Quick and easy to use
Cheap

Cons
Can be toxic and flammable
Not as versatile as other odor eliminators
Smells like cologne

9. Best Vent Odor Eliminator: Armor All Car Vent and Duct Odor Eliminator

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Why we like it: It makes eliminating odors from your vents easy, it has a pleasant light scent, and it kills mold and mildew.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Vent and duct aerosol
Type of odors: Mold and mildew
Safety: Flammable and toxic (direct exposure)
Surfaces: Vents and ducts
If you live in a warm climate with high humidity, then you’ve probably dealt with a musty smell coming from your vents at one point or another. Unlike most other odor eliminators, the Armor All Car Vent and Duct Odor Eliminator is great at combating odors from within your car’s AC system.
You’ll want to spray this into your car’s interior vents as well as the intake vent on the outside of your car. It will help kill any mold or mildew residing in your ducts, as well as any other lingering odors. To help it maximize its effectiveness, you’ll want to check out our recommendations below before using it.
The scent of this vent and duct cleaner is a light and pleasant tropical smell. However, the smell of the spray doesn’t last very long – a few days at most. This could be good or bad, depending on your preferences, but it would be nice to see a longer-lasting fragrance.
Because this spray is only for your ducts and vents, it won’t work if the source of the foul odors in your car reside elsewhere. It may also work best in combination with another effective odor eliminator, like Meguiar’s Whole Car Odor Eliminator.
Given its relatively low price, using it with another odor eliminator will help deliver a 1-2 punch to foul odors inside your vehicle. But even by itself, it’ll work wonders for musty and malodorous vents.

Pros
Kills mold and mildew
Light tropical scent
Low price
Works great as a supplemental odor eliminator

Cons
Only useful for ducts and vents
Smell doesn’t last very long

10. Best Non-Toxic Odor Eliminator: Van Den Heuvels R86 Industrial Odor Eliminator

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Why we like it: Coming in a powdered form, this stuff is useful for all sorts of odors and is non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and biodegradable.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Powder
Type of odors: All
Safety: Non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and biodegradable
Surfaces: All salt-safe surfaces
If you have a particularly pernicious foul odor plaguing your car, you might want to consider using an industrial-strength odor eliminator. Van Den Heuvels R86 Industrial Odor Eliminator is one such product that’s meant to tackle stubborn odors like skunk smell, smoke, vomit, and decay.
What’s fascinating about this product is that, despite being an industrial-strength odor eliminator, it’s actually non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and biodegradable. But don’t let its natural makeup fool you – this isn’t your granny’s baking soda, though it works similarly.
The actual odor eliminator is a proprietary blend of odor-absorbing salts and essential oils for fragrance that you can use wet or dry. That means you can simply sprinkle it on your carpets and seats and vacuum it off later, or you can mix it with water and put it in a spray bottle.
The smell is often described as being either a vanilla or banana smell – sweet but not flowery. This can be off-putting to some, but it entirely depends on your preference. And while R86 is marketed as having a faint fragrance, some people might find it too strong. However, the smell will fade in a few days, and isn’t as overpowering as other odor eliminators like Angry Orange.
This odor eliminator is best used on the source of the odor, and you may need to leave it on for a while to work. You’ll also want to be careful with this stuff around metal in your car. Since it consists of salt and essential oils, it can damage your car’s finish or accelerate rusting on unfinished metal.
Overall, it’s a great product meant to treat horrendous smells. It’s a bit pricey, but if you’ve tried other odor eliminators to no avail, it could be worth your while to give this stuff a try.

Pros
Great for all types of intense foul odors
Industrial-strength
Non-toxic and environmentally friendly
Can be used wet or dry

Cons
Fragrance may be off-putting for some people
Can cause damage to metal and paint
Expensive

Everything You Need to Know About Car Odor Eliminators

We’ve covered some odor elimination basics and a number of great products for all smells. Before using an odor eliminator in your car, you should consider a few things to maximize their effectiveness and ensure you’re banishing offensive odors for good.
Why Old Odors Come Back
You may have used an odor eliminator in the past, only to find that the foul odors you’re trying to eliminate don’t leave permanently. There’s actually a perfectly reasonable explanation for this.
You see, sometimes smells will naturally fade on their own as they dry out. For example, as urine dries, the uric acids eventually crystallize and cease to emit urine’s pungent odor. Without removing this residue, the source of the smell still resides in your carpet or upholstery, but sits dormant.
Many odor eliminators like Febreze also contain molecules that trap odors. These odors will stay trapped within those molecules, and lie inert on the surface of your carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces where the odors originally resided.
In both cases, the re-introduction of moisture can trigger the return of foul odors. For odors like urine, the introduction of moisture allows the uric acid to begin emitting the smell back into the air. Meanwhile, odor-trapping molecules will release trapped odor-producing molecules on contact with moisture.
That’s why you may find things like Febreze an ineffective long-term solution. Even something as seemingly benign as high humidity can cause odors to resurface and re-offend.
This leaves you with 2 options: mechanically remove the source of the odor from your car, or break them down chemically. Some odors, like wet dog smell and pet urine, can be broken down with enzymes like those found in Rocco & Roxie Supply’s Professional Strength Stain and Odor Eliminator, while others may need to be removed with an upholstery or steam cleaner.
Maximizing the Effectiveness of Your Chosen Odor Eliminator
Car odor eliminators are a great alternative to tearing out your interior and doing a full detailed clean. After you’ve chosen an odor eliminator, you should make sure to do a few things to maximize their effectiveness.
Remove the Source of Offending Odors
Ashes and dirty gym bags will diminish the effectiveness of any odor eliminator. If you want your odor eliminator to completely eliminate foul odors, you should make sure to clean your car before using them. A good vacuuming and a quick once-over to make sure any stray malodorous objects are removed will help keep odors away for good.
For stubborn odors that have seeped into your car’s seats and carpet, you may need to bring out the big guns. A good steam cleaner will help any odor eliminator go the extra mile in effectively eliminating foul odors from your car.
Replace Your Cabin Air Filter
Even after you’ve cleaned your car and removed the source of the odors, you might notice offensive odors still faintly lingering. There’s a good chance that your cabin air filter is at least partially responsible for this faint lingering smell.
Because the cabin air filter filters out dust and debris from your car, it’s likely that some of the lingering odor molecules are trapped in your filter. The best solution for dealing with this is to replace your cabin filter if possible.
Cabin air filters are relatively inexpensive, and are a great way to keep the air you’re breathing clean. It’s also good practice to routinely change your cabin air filter regularly, both to keep your car smelling fresh and for optimal performance.
Use Removable Seat Covers for Pets
If you’re a pet owner, having a removable seat cover is a must to avoid pet musk. This could be anything from a blanket or sheet to an actual seat cover. A seat cover won’t prevent all accidents and smells. But having something you can easily pull out of your car and properly wash will save you the time and hassle of constantly cleaning and deodorizing your car directly.
Avoid Storing Most Odor Eliminators in Your Car
It really goes without saying, storing most odor eliminators in your car can lead to disaster. Many sprays and aerosols contain flammable substances that can cause a fire. This is especially prevalent with aerosol sprays, which can explode inside your car in extreme hot or cold temperatures.
Fire and explosion hazards aside, you’ll want to keep leakage in mind. Accidents happen and sometimes things leak. Guess where it’ll end up if you keep it stored in your car?
If you’re going with a passive odor eliminator, such as Ozium’s Smoke & Odors Eliminator Gel or Basic Concepts’ Charcoal Bags, then you shouldn’t have to worry about temperature problems or leakage. For everything else though? You might just want to leave your car’s smell-good at home.
Wrapping Up
Beating bad odors in your car doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. Keeping your car smelling great will keep you and your passengers happier. It will also help preserve your car’s resale value, meaning a small investment now can yield you greater return in the future.
Beating bad odors in your car doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. Keeping your car smelling great will keep you and your passengers happier. It will also help preserve your car’s resale value, meaning a small investment now can yield you greater return in the future. More

Your car is one of the most valuable and most utilized investments that you can ever have in your life. Unfortunately, its underside regularly comes into contact with a wide variety of substances. It can get splashed with water, doused with chemicals, and hit by debris and dirt that you encounter on the road. This exposure can cause major rusting or corrosion on your vehicle, compromising its road-worthiness as well as your safety over time.
Undercoating your vehicle is an excellent way to guarantee that this isn’t going to happen. In this article, we present to you the ultimate guide to undercoating. Not only will we help you choose the best car undercoating paints for all your needs, but we will also tell you everything you need to know about the hows and whys of undercoating your car.

Factors to Consider in Car Undercoating Paints
With the vast choices available for undercoating your vehicle, you may get confused about what makes them all different from each other.
In order to choose the right undercoating paint for your needs, there are several factors that you need to consider first, such as type, function, filling power, durability, volume, and shelf life.
Type
Although all undercoating paints are designed to protect your car from physical damage and natural elements, different types address different needs. It’s important to know what type of paint you need exactly before making your purchase.
One, there are different types of materials that undercoating paints can be based on, such as petroleum, asphalt, silicone, rubber, ceramics, and fiberglass. Two, undercoating paints differ by application as well. Some need to be manually painted; others come in pressurized spray cans for convenient application.
Simply put, different types have different features and benefits. If you want to learn more, this will be discussed in further detail below.
Function
The most basic function of your undercoating paint is to prevent corrosion and rust on the surface of your vehicle. Other functions that you might want to consider are applicability, sound deadening capabilities, the drying period after application, and aesthetics relative to the design you are going for.
Filling Power
This factor refers to how well your undercoat paint covers and spreads through the tiniest nooks and crannies that are present in the underbelly’s surface so that it can smooth out its surface. This is because the more even the surface of your vehicle’s undercarriage is, the better base it provides in case you may want to paint a topcoat of decorative covering.
Durability
The best undercoating paints can last for up to several years, while others can only last for several months. Keep an eye out for the durability of your coating since this will dictate the reapplication times of your paint as well as the money you may spend for initial and continuing costs.
Volume
Undercoating paint products come in various volume denominations. Some come 16 ounces per can, while others yet contain 5 gallons of material. If you’re DYI-ing your undercoating job, you should factor in how much paint you need for the initial coating, as well as the amount you need to buy for future maintenance. Obviously, bigger vehicles have a bigger surface that needs to be coated, so keep this in mind, too.
Shelf Life
Undercoating paints also come with different shelf lives, which comes hand-in-hand with volume. Most products have a shelf life of at least 1 year after being opened, but sometimes they can be shorter or longer. Let’s say you’re using undercoating paint that only has a shelf life of 6 months. How many times are you planning to reapply undercoating in 6 months? If the answer is “0,” you should buy only what you need for one paint job.
With the wide variety of car undercoating paints present in the market, you may find it difficult to find the best option for you.
Fortunately, that’s what we’re here for. We’ve screened through the most common undercoating products in the market right now and determined the good, the bad, and the ugly. Take a look at the list below to choose the best undercoating paint for your specific needs.

Top 10 Best Car Undercoating Paints 2021
1. Best Overall Undercoating Paint: 3M Professional Grade Rubberized Undercoating

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Why we like it: The smooth, top coat-ready, protective finish of the 3M Professional Grade Rubberized Undercoating certainly lives up to the 3M quality brand name.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Rubberized, Asphalt-Based
Method of Application: Spray
Drying Time: 1 hour
Shelf Life: N/A
3M is one of the leading brands of automotive chemical manufacturers, which is why it’s no surprise that the 3M Professional Grade Rubberized Undercoating delivers so well. Although it primarily serves to protect the undercarriage of your car from abrasion, rust, and corrosion, it’s actually a multipurpose coat, which means it also works perfectly in quarter panels, under the hood, and on fender interiors, trunk lids, and wheel wells.
It has an asphalt-based formula that dries to a completely smooth rubberized finish. This not only inhibits rust and corrosion but is also the perfect base for a long-lasting topcoat. It also provides good sound deadening, able to reduce both road and engine noise.
It comes in an easy spray can, perfect for touching up small or narrow parts of your vehicle, but not so much when applying over a wide area. Its no-run formula ensures that the application is never messy. However, it doesn’t offer a lot of coverage for its volume, so you’ll have to apply multiple coats just to get proper coverage. For more intense coverage, consider Dupli-Color’s Professional Rubberized Undercoat.

Pros
Multipurpose use
Strong, asphalt-based formula
Easy, no-mess application
Sound deadening properties
Good for small or narrow parts

Cons
More pricey than the competition
Difficult to apply on wider areas
Needs multiple coats for proper coverage

2. Best Premium Undercoating Paint: POR-15 Rust Preventive Paint

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Why we like it: The POR-15 Rust Preventive Coating isn’t just great for undercoating–it’s also an amazing choice for all-around protective coating, making it a premium product worth the premium price.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Oil-Based
Method of Application: Brush or Spray
Drying Time: 4.5 hours on average
Shelf Life: 2 years if unopened, around 6 months if opened
POR-15’s best-selling Rust Preventive Coating is a high-tech coating that functions splendidly in protecting your car’s underbelly from the elements and preventing rust from forming.
The best thing about this product is that there’s no need to remove rust completely before applying this to your car. It is specifically designed to be applied to any metal surface, as long as it is prepped properly beforehand. The material dries into a non-porous finish that is as hard as a rock and will never crack or peel. It also lasts a long time, provided that you apply it properly.
That said, even premium products have their own downsides. For this one, shelf life is a little subpar at 6 months. It’s also UV-sensitive, so it can’t be directly exposed to sunlight. For a UV-resistant undercoating paint, take a look at Rust Bullet Automotive. If you’re planning to apply POR-15’s paint to areas that will be facing the sun for a while, you should always apply a topcoat. This is not necessary when applied to unexposed areas, though, making it the ideal undercarriage coating for your vehicle.
Pro-Tip
It works best when used with POR 15’s 3-step rust preventive system, which consists of a cleaner/degreaser, a metal prep, and this rust preventive coating. If applying to exposed areas, finish it off with the POR-15 Top Coat.

Pros
High-quality performance
Protects any kind of metal surface
Can be bought in several container sizes
Lasts a long time if properly applied

Cons
Has a short shelf life after opening
Messy application as it stains everything
UV-sensitive so not ideal for surfaces exposed to the sun

3. Best Budget Undercoating Paint: Rust-Oleum Professional Grade Rubberized Undercoating Spray

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Why we like it: The Rust-Oleum Professional Grade Rubberized Undercoating Spray is a fantastic option for people who want to protect their car’s underbelly completely, especially those on a tight budget.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Rubberized
Method of Application: Spray
Drying Time: Dry to the touch in 1 hour; can drive in 24 hours
Shelf Life: 5 years if unopened
Rust-Oleum’s Pro-Grade Rubberized Undercoating Spray is called Pro-Grade for a reason. It dries into a protective high-quality rubberized material that prevents rust and protects against salt, chemicals, moisture, and environmental exposure. Since it’s rubberized, it can even save your car from minor road damages like chips or dents. It also has sound deadening qualities that make for a smooth, quiet ride.
Despite its name, this product comes in both spray and paint form. The spray version comes with the brand’s special any-angle technology and a custom spray tip that makes application easy and convenient, even for complete beginners. The material also dries exceptionally fast compared to other rubberized sprays, becoming dry to touch after just one hour. Keep in mind though you should still wait for 24-48 hours before using your car.
That said, this undercoating spray lets out heavy fumes, so make sure you have your protective gear ready. Also, the standard 15 oz can only cover 10-15 sq. ft., which may be too small depending on the size of your vehicle.
Pro-Tip
If your undercarriage is rusty, you should either grind the rust down first or use the Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer Spray before using this undercoating spray.

Pros
Budget-friendly
High quality, professional-grade product
Ease of use with all-angle spray technology
Fast drying for a rubberized spray

Cons
Spray can only covers 10-15 sq. ft.
Releases heavy fumes upon us

4. Easiest-to-Use Undercoating Paint: Dynatron Dyna-Pro Rubberized Undercoating

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Why we like it: Dynatron’s Dyna-Pro Rubberized Undercoating is an easy-to-use, instant protection against the harsh elements of your day-to-day commute.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Rubberized
Method of Application: Brush, Roll, or Spray
Drying Time: 24 hours
Shelf Life: 1 year if unopened, 4 months if opened
Backed by 3M, Dynatron’s Dyna-Pro Paintable Rubberized Undercoating is a very versatile undercoat that can be used on all types of vehicles. It was specifically formulated to protect your vehicle’s undercarriage from chemical corrosion, rust, and chipping.
It has a good coverage and can be easily applied using a brush, roller, or spray. Once it hardens to its thick, rubberized finish, it becomes tough enough to secure your car against the multitude of minor scrapes that it encounters every day. It also has sound-reducing properties to prevent unnecessarily noisy rides.
You can buy the product in 1-gallon cans that are compatible with paint refinish systems, which means it can be easily matched with any desired OEM colors. Unfortunately, this can also be a big downside, since the shelf-life of the Dyna-Pro is quite short compared to competitors.

Pros
Fast-drying
Strong protection against everyday wear and tear
Sound deadening properties
Compatible with other paint systems

Cons
Pricier than the competition
Short shelf-life

5. Most Versatile Undercoating Paint: Rust Bullet Automotive

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Why we like it: Tough, versatile, and low-maintenance, Rust Bullet’s Automotive rust inhibitor paint is ideal for undercoating your vehicle and any outdoor metal product that can benefit from its super-strong protection.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Non-Rubberized Polyurethane
Method of Application: Brush, Roll, or Spray
Drying Time: 24 hours
Shelf Life: 2 years if unopened, 1 month if opened
Rust Bullet’s Automotive rust inhibitor paint not only fights against rust and corrosion but also keeps your undercarriage safe from abrasions and minor damages. You also don’t need to use a primer or topcoat to use this coating. You can apply it directly on rusty or previously painted surfaces, but it’s always best to clean metal surfaces thoroughly first to ensure optimum performance.
It can be applied to a wide variety of areas including undercarriages, floor pans, frames, suspensions, and rocker panels. It can even be applied to areas exposed to the sun, since it’s completely UV-resistant. It’s a little thinner compared to other paints but that only means that it’s much easier to apply and spread. That said, you’ll need a minimum of two coats for it to last a long time.
Do keep in mind that due to its polyurethane formula, this rust inhibitor paint will start hardening almost immediately after you open the product. This means you should only buy the amount that you actually need for one use. It also tends to stick to everything, so be careful when applying it to your car.
It also does not offer any noise deadening benefits. If you’re looking to reduce noise, consider Dupli-Color’s Professional Rubberized Undercoat instead.
Pro-Tip
For best results, apply Rust Bullet Rust Treatment first to rusty areas of your vehicle before using this paint.

Pros
Convenient one-step process
Completely UV-resistant
Protects from physical and chemical damages
No heavy metals to damage your vehicle surface

Cons
Very short shelf life once opened
Sticks to everything and therefore may get messy
No noise deadening capabilities

6. Best Undercoating Paint for Aesthetics: Dupli-Color Professional Rubberized Undercoat

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Why we like it: Plain, simple, and effective, Dupli-Color’s Professional Rubberized Undercoat is a good choice for anyone looking for an easy-to-use undercoating.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: rubberized
Method of Application: spray
Drying Time: 2 hours
Shelf Life: N/A
Dupli-Color’s Professional Rubberized Undercoat is a quick-dry, paintable-finish formula that aims not only to protect your car’s undercarriage, but also to improve its aesthetics. It dries to a rubberized matte finish that is perfect for top coating and can help the paint retain its color even after a long time.
It provides good protection against rust, corrosion, and minor abrasions from daily use. It also has great noise deadening capabilities because of the rubberized finish. Coverage is good, provided that you prep the surface properly before application.
Although the formula is rather thick, application is quite messy. The nozzle on the spray can is also not very durable and easily breaks. Lastly, it’s not UV-resistant, so you should only use this strictly for your undercarriage or areas that are unexposed to the sun.

Pros
Paintable
Rubberized, matte, textured finish
Noise deadening capabilities
Quick-drying
Relatively cheap

Cons
Not UV-resistant
Messy application
Flimsy nozzle

7. Best Undercoating Paint for High-Contact Areas: 3M Non-Rubberized Undercoating

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Why we like it: Although it does not perform as great as the brand’s rubberized version, 3M’s multipurpose Non-Rubberized Undercoating is a great, long-lasting, and reliable product in its own right.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Asphalt-Based
Method of Application: Spray
Drying Time: 30 minutes
Shelf Life: N/A
This version of 3M’s undercoating paint dries solid and very hard. It’s perfect for those areas in your undercarriage that can potentially be exposed to more physical contact with the environment than normal, such as the fenders and wheel wells. Its primary use is to protect the metal from rust, build-up, and abrasions, but it’s also fairly decent at reducing road and vehicle noise.
That said, the substance does take a while to dry. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a full 24 hours for it to fully cure. It also requires you to thoroughly prepare your undercarriage before application, or else it could peel off prematurely.

Pros
Dries into a hard, protective coating
Comes in either paintable or non-paintable variety
Covers marks on metal surface
Decent sound deadening properties
Easy spray application

Cons
Takes a long time to dry
Required prior preparation

8. Simplest Undercoating Paint: Rusfre Automotive Rubberized Material

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Why we like it: Rustfre Automotive Rubberized Material’s beauty lies in its simplicity – it doesn’t offer anything revolutionary, but its protective properties are certainly worth your dime.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Rubberized
Method of Application: Brush or Spray
Drying Time: N/A
Shelf Life: N/A
Rusfre’s Automotive Rubberized Material is an automotive undercoating, pure and simple. Although it does not offer anything new aside from the standard abrasion protection, rust and corrosion inhibition, peel, crack, and chip resistance, and noise reduction, it does deliver on all its promises.
The formula comes out as a viscous substance that semi-hardens into a protective layer. It can be applied using a roller, a paintbrush, or a spray. Although it sticks very well, application can be a bit messy. Not to mention, due to its thickness, it takes a while to dry.
Also, using this product is not a one-step process. Your undercarriage needs to be fully prepped before using this product, which means thorough cleaning and rust removal are required.
Pro-Tip
If you need to apply it to small nooks and crannies where thick liquid can’t go, you only have to dilute the product with an appropriate solvent like an enamel reducer or even mineral spirits.

Pros
Very strong, tough bond
Different application methods available
Reduces vehicle noise
Relatively cheap

Cons
Application can be messy
Takes some time to fully cure and dry

9. Best Restorative Undercoating Paint: Fluid Film Rust & Corrosion Protection

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Why we like it: Fluid Film Rust & Corrosion Protection is a multipurpose coating that can not only be used for your car’s undercarriage, but also to any metal surface that needs protecting from rust and corrosion.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Petroleum-Based
Method of Application: Brush or Roll
Drying Time: N/A
Shelf Life: N/A
Fluid Film has made a name for itself in the aircraft and aerospace industry as a maker of top-of-the-line lubricant and rust inhibitor products. Now, the brand’s bringing it over into the automotive market with this Rust & Corrosion Protection.
This product provides great value for money in terms of preventative coating for your vehicle’s undercarriage. It provides trustworthy protection against moisture and chemicals, and its thixotropic fluid formula makes sure it gets into the littlest corners of your undercarriage. Not only does it protect the metal from corrosion, but it can also salvage surface-level damage by digging into the metal itself and lifting out the rust over time.
However, do keep in mind that this undercoating doesn’t harden and will not protect against debris or abrasion. It is very gooey and may make a mess. It also has strong fumes that may take some getting used to. You may notice some white smoke during your first few drives after applying this, but rest assured that it’s not flammable enough to catch fire. The white smoke is merely caused by the fluid evaporating when it gets to the exhaust pipe.

Pros
Versatile use
Digs into the smallest spaces of the vehicle
Reliable rust and corrosion prevention
Salvages reasonably rust damaged metal

Cons
Doesn’t dry completely
Very strong fumes
No sound deadening
May produce white smoke at first

10. Most Stylish Yet Simple Undercoating Paint: Penray Rubberized Undercoat

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Why we like it: If you’re looking for something simple and a bit fancy at the same time, Penray’s Rubberized Undercoat is a great choice.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Rubberized
Method of Application: Spray
Drying Time: 2 hours
Shelf Life: 5 years if unopened
Penray may not be as prominent as the other brands on this list, but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t deserve a spot.
This rubberized undercoating will keep your undercarriage pristine over long periods, protecting it from rust, corrosion, moisture, dirt, and chemicals. It also has great sound deadening properties.
When it comes to aesthetics, it dries to a matte black finish that looks both buffed and classy. It doesn’t need a primer or a topcoat to do its job, but it’s completely paintable with no bleed through in case you want a splash of color. A spray extender comes with the product so you can easily reach narrow areas.
However, make sure to cover up your nose when using this product as it smells quite bad. You should also clean the undercarriage thoroughly before applying this, because while it’s typically adherent to surface material, it does have a hard time bonding to greasy surfaces. Lastly, although Penray markets it as a quick-drying formula, it still doesn’t dry as quickly as we would like.

Pros
Convenient application
Sound deadening properties
Dries to a matte finish and can be painted over
Doesn’t need much preparation

Cons
Requires multiple coatings for proper coverage
Hard to apply to greasy surfaces

The Ultimate Guide to Car Undercoating Paints

Undercoating your car is a complex job to undertake. You have to consider a lot of factors in order to protect your vehicle in the most efficient way possible. This section of our guide will provide an exhaustive source of all the important information you need to use and apply undercoating paints.
What Are Undercoating Paints?
Undercoating paints provide the most vulnerable part of your vehicle an added layer of protection against harmful elements that you may encounter every day, such as rocks, debris, salt, water, and other minerals that could negatively affect your car.
This kind of paint is typically applied to the car’s exterior, especially the undercarriage. It can also be applied to floorboards, suspension parts, frame, gas tank, pans, and wheel wells of your vehicle. If you’re buying a second-hand vehicle, you should always apply undercoating paint to prevent additional damage to its already fragile underbelly.
How Long Do Car Undercoating Paints Last?
How long your undercoating lasts depends on many factors, like what type of undercoating you used, how well you applied it, how you use your car, and even where you live. Generally, though, car undercoating lasts at least a full year.
If you often use your car on rough terrain or if you live near the ocean, where the chance of rust, corrosion, and chemical damage is greater, there’s a good chance you’ll have to apply undercoating at least once every six months.
Different Types of Undercoating Paints
There are several types of undercoating available in the market, such as water, petroleum, rubber, asphalt, and polyurethane-based paints. Each type has its own strengths and weaknesses that you should consider before picking out which paint is best for you.
Here’s an explanation of each one in a nutshell.
Water-Based
Water-based undercoating paints are the most commonly used paints for DIY undercoating projects. Like other water-based products, they have a thin consistency and dry faster than other types of undercoating paint. They’re also generally sold in aerosol cans for easy application.
The biggest disadvantage of water-based paints is that they wear out faster than other types. This means you’ll need to redo the coating more often for maximum protection, which could be a problem for those who don’t like high-maintenance vehicles.
Wax or Paraffin-Based
Wax or paraffin-based undercoating paints are some of the cheapest options around. They never actually harden and instead seep into the nooks and crannies of your vehicle to protect it from most elements. They are also stronger than water-based paints and can withstand more abuse and exposure.
This type of paint can be either painted on or sprayed, making application quick and easy. However, they still wear off pretty fast, which means you still need to redo the coating at least once a year.
Oil or Petroleum-Based​​​​​
Petroleum-based undercoating is a step above both water and paraffin-based options, as it offers much wider and stronger protection. It can repel road salts, oils, and debris much better than most other types of undercoating paints. Also, petroleum-based compounds are known to be effective at preventing corrosion in vehicles.
However, they’re harder to find in the market, and some petroleum-based undercoating like the Fluid Film Rust & Corrosion Protection never really dries fully – something not everyone likes.
Rubberized
Rubberized formulas are the second-strongest undercoats available on the market. This type of substance is designed specifically for rugged terrains and can withstand stronger exposure and abuse than any other formulas mentioned. They also offer additional features like sound deadening and resistance to dents.
These formulas are very easy to apply and can be painted on or applied as an aerosol spray. They can even be painted over in case you make a mistake and can be removed easily with any undercoating paint remover.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane is one of the most expensive undercoating options out there. It is self-sealing, which means it will seep into the smallest corners and cracks, sealing the surface where it’s applied and pushing out all the salt, sand, dirt, and moisture in the process. Due to this, it’s a great option if you want complete protection for not only your car’s underbelly but also its exterior in general.
This type of undercoating can be purchased in pails or canisters for coating guns. Keep in mind that you have to spend extra time prepping your car’s surface before you apply polyurethane. This includes doing tasks such as degreasing, sanding, and applying an etching primer to metal parts.
Asphalt-Based
Asphalt-based undercoating is designed for military all-terrain vehicles that often see rugged use. It contains some rubber material in it that can help in sound deadening as well.
Compared to other types of undercoating, asphalt-based undercoating is the strongest and the most long-lasting. It does have three downsides worth considering, however. First of all, it’s the most expensive undercoating option in the market right now. It’s also not paintable, which means it can only be used for your car’s underbelly. Lastly, asphalt-based undercoating takes the longest time to fully cure.
Benefits of Undercoating
Not everyone takes the time and effort to undercoat their car. Not that it’s a surprise, considering how many people see undercoating as an expensive waste of time. However, the benefits that come with undercoating can’t be denied.
Here are some of the most significant benefits of undercoating your car.
Provides Additional Protection
Daily wear and tear, when left unattended, can eventually result in irreparable damage to your car. Every time you take out your car for a spin, it accumulates dust, grime, and salt. It also gets exposed to moisture, chemicals, and oxidation. This can lead to rust and mold, two of your car’s biggest enemies.
A good undercoating can prevent all that from happening. It can even protect your car from physical damages like chinks, dents, or scratches. And since all the important parts are covered and water-proofed by the coat, undercarriage cleaning becomes much easier and less risky.
Saves You Money in the Long Run
Anyone who has ever owned a car before will know that repairs are expensive – sometimes, unbelievably so. For instance, it’s not unusual to see repairs for structural damage amount to more than the value of your car.
Remember, the undercarriage is the part that is always exposed to rough terrains, harmful chemicals, and other debris present in the road and the environment. By providing a solid layer of protection to a vulnerable part of your vehicle, undercoating can save you money in the long run. You wouldn’t have to spend so much on repairs if there’s nothing to repair in the first place, right?
May Help Offset Insurance Costs
Insurance providers base their quote on how high-risk your car is. For example, second-hand cars cost a lot of money to insure because they’re more likely to need repairs. Reducing your risks by providing your vehicle more protection may qualify as a discount towards your premiums, especially in states that see high cases of corrosion in vehicles.
Makes Your Vehicle Run Quieter
Undercoating typically contains rubber, allowing the formula to seal the entire underbelly of your car completely. The rubber layer not only protects the surface of your undercarriage from damage but absorbs road noise, as well. The added noise suppression in your vehicle’s interior results in a quieter vehicle and a significantly better driving experience.
Undercoating vs. Rust Proofing
Although people often use the two terms interchangeably, rust proofing and undercoating are technically not the same.
Rust proofing usually refers to applying rust inhabitant on specific spots where rust will most likely form on your vehicle’s body. It usually involves using a thin substance to coat your car and prevent it from developing rust over time.
On the other hand, undercoating is applying a thick, durable, and protective layer of material to the underbelly of your vehicle. It’s meant to cover the floorboard, frame, and the wheel wells – places that are very susceptible to physical and chemical damage in the long run.
Pros and Cons of Undercoating
When you apply undercoating, you’re providing protection to your car’s underbelly against all kinds of damages, rather than just rust. In addition to that, undercoating can also reduce the noise that your car generates on the road, something that plain rust proofing can’t do.
However, undercoating is merely a preventative measure, which means it’s more advisable for newer cars. If your undercarriage has already begun to rust, you’ll have to completely remove all the rust first before you can apply undercoating. Depending on the condition of your vehicle, this can be extremely expensive.
Pros and Cons of Rust Proofing
Rust proofing is meant to lengthen your car’s lifespan as well, and for a typically cheaper price than undercoating. Unlike undercoating, you can still apply rust proofing to areas that have already begun to rust. Rusting is a chemical process, and like all chemical processes, it can always be delayed or stopped – if caught early.
However, rust proofing is becoming less and less popular with the arrival of newer, more rust-resistant materials that cars are made of. Galvanized steel, for example, greatly increases the resistance of car surfaces to rust, making rust proofing a costly redundancy. On the contrary, this doesn’t apply to undercoating, as undercoating protects your car from more than just rust.
Rust Proofing or Undercoating?
If you’re on a tight budget and can only choose one of the two, you should look first at the specific problem you want to solve.
For example, if owning a vehicle for you is all about keeping the exterior spotless and looking good, rust proofing is enough. However, if you’re more concerned about how your car will hold up over ten or so years, then undercoating is a better option.
However, if you have the means to avail both for your car, you don’t have to choose at all. Rust proofing and undercoating are not mutually exclusive – in fact, they complement each other pretty well. Getting both can give your beloved ride the best protection it needs and deserves.
Methods for Applying Undercoating Paints

Different types of undercoating may need different methods of application. Here’s a quick explanation about the two main methods used to apply car undercoating paints.
Brush or Roll
One way to apply undercoating paints is by using a paintbrush or a roller brush. Water-based, wax-based, paraffin-based, and rubberized undercoating typically use this method. It’s very straightforward even for beginners because you can easily control the brush, which means you can paint more than just your car’s undercarriage. The only downside is that it can take up a lot of your time.
Spray
This is the most widely practiced method for applying undercoating to vehicles. Spraying makes sure that the material will adhere properly to your vehicle’s underside to protect it from the elements. However, it can be quite difficult to get an even spread. It’s best to use this method on a new car the day you bring it home.
How To Apply Undercoating Paint
Undercoating your vehicle, although simple in theory, can be an arduous task. To help you out, here’s a step-by-step guide to applying undercoating paint to your car.
Materials
Scraper
Degreaser
Disc grinder and grinding pads
Sandpaper
Dry rag
Primer
Undercoating
Workshop safety goggles
Protective gloves
Steps
Thoroughly clean your vehicle’s undercarriage with a good degreaser. Make sure that no part is left uncleaned.
If there’s any rust present, grind it down with a disc grinder.
Sand down any rust that remains. There should be no rust present before you begin undercoating.
Once that’s done, it’s time to prime the clean undercarriage. If you’re using polyurethane undercoating, etching primer is needed for bare metal parts. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding.
Liberally apply undercoating to the undercarriage of your vehicle. Cover all of the exposed parts such as the wheel wells, the frame, the floorboards. Let this first coat dry for at least an hour.
Once the first coat has dried, apply your second coating of undercoat.
Let the undercoating dry for 24 hours at a minimum before you use your vehicle.
If you want to remove undercoating from your car, apply the appropriate paint remover product for the type of undercoat you want to remove. This includes solvents, aircraft strippers, or paint strippers. You can also use a heat gun to soften the undercoating first.
Once the undercoating has already softened, use a scraper to scrape off the undercoating paint, taking care not to damage your vehicle.
What’s the Best Method for Cleaning My Undercarriage?
The best method is to get a professional car wash service to clean your vehicle’s undercarriage thoroughly. However, if you prefer–or don’t mind–doing it yourself, power washers are the best way to get all the dirt and grime off your car. If you don’t have a power washer, a regular garden hose is the next best option.
That said, keep in mind that you’ll have to check more thoroughly if you’re using a garden hose since the pressure may not be strong enough to remove dirt that has already hardened over time.
Also, both power washers and garden hoses aren’t the be all and end all of the undercarriage cleaning. You still have to apply a degreaser and then grind down any instances of rust before applying the undercoat.
Should I Remove My Wheels When Applying Undercoating?
Yes, you should. It may seem like a chore, but you should always remove the wheels of your car before you apply undercoating, especially when using spraying methods. Undercoating is a substance that hardens over time, so if you get it on your wheels, it will form a lump that may throw off your vehicle’s balance while driving.
Once again, always remove all removable parts of your car before undercoating to ensure that the whole process goes smoothly. It’s better to be safe than sorry, after all.
Tips For Undercoating Your Car
Here are some additional tips that you should keep in mind before you undercoat your car.
Never apply undercoating to a dirty undercarriage. Once your car has been undercoated, you won’t be able to clean the surface underneath it anymore. Any dirt, mildew, or rust trapped there will slowly corrode your car’s undercarriage.
It can be a real pain to clean the mud, dirt, and dust from the underside of your car. To easily rid the undercarriage of road gunk, use a pressurized washer. Once it dries, you can proceed to grinding and sanding down rust, if any. You can also use a rust remover to make sure that no rust remains.
Most undercoating products will never stick to greased surfaces, no matter how long you dry it out. Always use a degreaser to completely remove grease from your car’s surface.
If you’re using an aerosol spray, do a trial spray first to see the can’s fan pattern. Spray up and down if the paint comes out in a narrow stream, but if it comes out tall and fan-like, spray side to side.
Always use safety goggles and a sturdy mask when undercoating. During the process, you’re going to be exposed to a lot of harsh chemical fumes, so it’s best to protect yourself.
Final Words
This list showed you the best undercoating paints that you can get on the market right now. All of them are great options–some more suitable for your situation than others.
Regardless of what you pick though, undercoating is a great way to protect your car from daily wear and tear, prevent rust and corrosion, and prolong its lifespan. Not only does it save you money in the long run, but it also saves your car from otherwise preventable damages. More