Fluid film for a used 4Runner?

I have a 2012 4Runner purchased used so I am unsure of the history.

It is my daily car but I also take it onto the beach about 10 times a year. After each trip, I run it through the car wash and make sure to get the under carriage wash. I have bought a sprayer for the pressure washer to get under the car that I plan on using in the spring.

It doesn't look too bad underneath, especially for it's age but I would like to keep this for many more years.

Is it worth having fluid film applied professionally the touch it up each year or is it too late?

 

I’d do something to stop what rust is there, and protect what isn’t. Research fluid film, wool wax and surface shield (just some of the options I’m aware of). Research what someone charges in your area and what products that they use. Then decide what your willingness to do it versus paying someone. The first time is probably better to pay someone who knows what they are doing and getting it really covered, after that depends on cost and time.

 

Thanks, that was what I was thinking but didn't know if it was too late.

It is about $350 for a professional job. It's not cheap but nether is replacing the truck.

 

What do they use? 350 seems steep to me.

 

My vehicle is of the same age. Had minimal rust. I did my first fluid film last month.
Just wire brush and spray. And top up every year before winter.

 

I thought so too. They use fluid film. Maybe because he has a lift to get underneath the car it costs more, can't think why else.

 

Do you use ramps to get all the way under?

 

They generally drop the spare, remove the wheels and skid plates and then mask off some stuff (such as the rotors).

 

Nope.
I just got the rear up on a parking divider in my apartment parking lot. Enough space to slide in.
I din't go any crazy and have no idea how people are going through 8, 10 cans of fluid films. I think I used 2 or 3.
I wire brushed the surface rust and removed any flaky rust. Then just sprayed it on the frame, inside the frame holes, behind rear bumper, rear axel, spare wheel mechanism, below radiator, steering shaft u joint, transmission shifter senso, latches etc. There are a few crucial areas other than that just spray. I think I was done spraying in about 20 mins.
But areas where rust had peeled to bare metal I applied POR15 after prepping it. Then applied FF on it. POR15 is great but the prep work is a pain and it only works if you prep properly. Degreaser, metal etch then paint.