Hi Mark,

The ceramic coating in its self cannot rust. This product is a ceramic coating with aluminum powder suspended in it. The usual culprit is lack of maintenance. The exhaust stem will need to be cleaned and re-polished on a regular basis. A good example would be a polished aluminum wheel. This will dull if left alone. What also happens to the coating is that small metallic particles will settle on the surface when the exhaust is hot. These particles attach to the coating and start to rust. With out regular maintenance, this turns to rusty dots and more.

If this has not been allowed to go on too long it can be cleaned by using ultra fine #000 steel wool. Use the steel wool in a straight motion, not in circles, until you have a clean, but dull finish. Next, use an aluminum polish paste and polish the surface back to a shine. To save time, I use a Mother’s brand “Power Ball” on my cordless drill!

Hope this helps,

Andy