TurboFroggy said:
Rust-proofing is not required on a new car like the Leaf. In the paint shop at the factory, the bodies are electrostatically charged then fully dipped in primer that coats every nook and cranny of the body so they are unlikely to rust out. The Leaf also has a 5 year unlimited mileage rust proof warranty.
Here in Toledo, Ohio we have salt just like the OP. I too worry and wonder about Rust Proofing. I personally wouldn't leave it to chance that Nissan took action at the factory to prevent against rust. Around here with the road salt, humity, brine, snow, and slush from November to March, its always good to have extra rust-proofing. I myself would feel better knowing I have an extra barrier against the devil that is rust.
My buddy has an mechanic shop, and I've stopped by occasionally and all I see on the undercarriage is rust. What makes my especially concerned is that I just saw a Jeep Patriot (only 3 years old), with rust scattered about in certain areas on the undercarriage! Only 3 years old. Now that's a so-called "modern vehicle", that probably undergoes a similar production process as the Leaf (with the body being dipped an all).
The Pinches had a little rust, the Frame, Suspension parts, Muffler, Exhaust, Cat, and etc under there. Granted it was mostly surface rust, but that's always where it all starts. And only after 2-3 years. Driving around here you always see cars with rust. I bet I couldn't choose one car at random to inspect on the lift that didn't have surface rust on its undercarriage.
By the way, my Leaf has started to attain surface rust on the metal piece that holds the "Stack" up (under the hood). I made a thread about it here.
http://www.mynissanleaf.com/viewtopic.php?f=27&t=19775" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
That's why I worry, because up here in the North, the climate will destroy your vehicle.
I wouldn't want to take a chance, only to put it up on a lift in 3 years to find rust taking hold. I put my Leaf up on a drive-on lift once soon after I got it, and I did notice Nissan sprayed a smattering of Undercoating on the undercarriage (but not a lot and certainly not thorough). I noticed its only about $450 to have my nearby shop rust-proof a vehicle (standard rate). I may stop in and ask about it.