Copyright birminghammail
Drivers have been warned to check inside their wheel arches this autumn. This is due to the build-up of wet leaves and road debris, which could quietly cause corrosion and long-term damage to essential vehicle components. According to Show Plates World , autumn’s combination of rain, mud and fallen leaves creates the perfect conditions for hidden build-up beneath vehicles. Read more: Automatic payments confirmed for PIP, DLA and Attendance Allowance claimants When trapped inside the wheel arches, this damp mixture can collect behind plastic liners or suspension parts, leading to rust, blocked drainage, and even electrical faults over time. While the underside of a car is designed to withstand exposure to moisture, the problem arises when organic matter such as leaf mulch becomes compacted in hard-to-reach areas. Once lodged inside the wheel arch, it traps water against metal panels and suspension mounts, creating a breeding ground for corrosion. Over several weeks, the damp environment can begin to erode paint and protective coatings, eventually exposing bare metal and allowing rust to form. Experts warn that corrosion in these areas doesn’t just affect appearance — it can compromise the vehicle’s structure. Components such as brake lines, strut mounts and wheel arch panels can all suffer if moisture and dirt remain trapped throughout the season. Left unchecked, this kind of rust can spread beneath underseal layers, leading to expensive repairs or even MOT failures. Show Plates World advises that regular inspection and cleaning during autumn are essential for preventing this type of damage. Drivers should check behind the wheels, around the inside edges of the arches, and near the suspension housing for signs of accumulated dirt or decomposing leaves. A quick rinse with a hose or pressure washer on a low setting is often enough to dislodge debris before it becomes compacted. Read more: Warning for thousands of drivers who have cars 'around 10 years old' Those who drive in rural or wooded areas are particularly at risk, as unpaved roads and overhanging trees contribute more debris. Vehicles fitted with wheel arch liners — common in modern cars — can still collect buildup behind or around the edges of these plastic guards. Moisture that becomes trapped here can remain for weeks, slowly working its way into seams and fasteners.
