The Hidden Danger Beneath: Protecting Your Nissan Figaro from Rust
At first glance, a Nissan Figaro can look pristine—a fresh paint job, polished chrome, and a classic charm that turns heads. But as we’ve recently seen in our Didcot workshop, what’s underneath can tell a very different story.
One particular Figaro that came in for an MOT had significant structural damage hidden beneath its shiny exterior. Despite the owner having invested in a costly repaint just a year earlier, the underside revealed severe rust, crumbling sills, and gaping holes through which we could see the steering wheel. This was a car that was simply not roadworthy.
The Underside: A Forgotten Area at Risk
Many Figaro owners focus on cosmetic enhancements, but the undercarriage, wheel arches, and sills are crucial areas that require regular attention. These components provide structural support, and if they succumb to rust, the car’s safety and longevity are at serious risk.
Common Rust-Prone Areas
- Wheel Arches – These are highly exposed to road spray, mud, and debris, creating a breeding ground for rust.
- Sills – The long, horizontal sections beneath the doors act as a structural support, but once rust takes hold, they weaken significantly.
- Floor Pans – Moisture build-up under carpets can cause rust from the inside out.
- Subframes and Suspension Mounting Points – If left unchecked, corrosion in these areas can lead to dangerous failures.
- Rear Wings – The way the chassis is spot welded creates cavities where water from the back wheels gets trapped, accelerating rust. Drilling small drainage holes or using rust-proofing treatments can help mitigate this.
- Rear Window Area – If you peel back the rubber at the base, you’ll often find significant corrosion. Regularly checking this area and treating any rust early can prevent more extensive damage.
- Bumpers – Due to their exposure, Figaro bumpers are prone to rust. Inspecting them regularly and treating any rust spots can prevent deterioration.
How Water Can Enter the Cabin
A Figaro’s cabin is vulnerable to water ingress due to its design. Water flows from the roof down to the top boot, then back up the floor pan if drainage isn’t functioning properly. Blocked or poorly positioned drainage channels allow moisture to accumulate inside the car, leading to rust in the floor and sills.
Why the Sills Rust & How to Prevent It
The Figaro’s sill rust issue stems from its drainage pipe design. Water from the top corners of the car is meant to drain down through tubes that run inside the sills, but these often clog or are incorrectly routed, allowing moisture to build up inside the sills. Repositioning these pipes to ensure proper drainage and regularly clearing them can prevent premature rusting.
Preventing Rust: What You Can Do
Rust prevention is all about vigilance and proper care. Here’s what every Figaro owner should be doing:
1. Regular Inspections
At least twice a year, get your Figaro on a ramp or jack stands and thoroughly inspect the underside. Look for signs of rust, flaking metal, or bubbling paint—indicators that corrosion is already at work.
2. Keep It Dry
Moisture is the enemy. Store your Figaro in a dry garage if possible and avoid leaving it parked on damp grass or gravel. If you drive in the rain, ensure it’s dried off properly, including the wheel arches.
3. Rust Protection Treatments
Applying rust prevention treatments, such as Waxoyl or Dinitrol, can help create a barrier against moisture. However, these should only be applied to solid metal—coating over rust will only trap in the problem.
4. Drainage Maintenance
The Figaro’s design includes drainage points that can become clogged, leading to trapped moisture. Make sure these are kept clear to prevent water from pooling in hidden areas.
5. Professional Undersealing
If your Figaro is rust-free, investing in a professional underseal treatment can add long-term protection. But if there’s already rust present, proper repairs must be completed first.
What To Do If You Spot Rust
If you suspect rust has taken hold, don’t ignore it. Minor surface rust can sometimes be sanded back and treated, but if the structural integrity is compromised, immediate action is required. In severe cases, like the Figaro we recently worked on, intensive repairs including welding and metal replacement may be necessary to make the car safe again.
If you’re unsure about your Figaro’s condition, book a professional inspection. A car may look perfect on the outside, but without a solid foundation, it’s an unsafe investment. Prevention is always better (and cheaper) than repair, so stay proactive and ensure your Figaro remains both beautiful and structurally sound for years to come.