Technical Resources Hub

Electronic corrosion protection research and patent documentation.

✅ Patented
✅ Tested
✅ Compliant

How Impressed Current Stops Rust

Visualize the difference our electronic corrosion protection module makes at the molecular level. Switch between the two scenarios to see it in action.

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Oxygen & Moisture Coatings Electron Shield Steel Body (Iron Molecules)

Patent Comparison: Three Approaches to Protection

Not all corrosion protection is created equal. Understanding the core scientific principles behind different patents reveals a fundamental difference in strategy: actively protecting the steel versus passively sacrificing another metal.

Feature Impressed Current (Our Technology) RF-Based Technology Sacrificial Anode
Core Principle Uses a direct, physical connection to the vehicle's chassis to deliver a meaningful and measurable flow of electrons (Direct Current). This makes the steel cathodic, directly inhibiting the electrochemical reaction of rust as dictated by the principles of electrochemistry. Attempts to indirectly influence the vehicle's surface with a low-energy radio frequency (RF) signal. It does not deliver a direct protective current to the steel and instead claims to "agitate" the sacrificial zinc coating—a method that has no basis in established corrosion science. Uses a more reactive metal (the anode) that corrodes first, "sacrificing" itself to protect the vehicle's steel. Requires a continuous electrolyte path.
Protection Area Protects the entire conductive metal structure of the vehicle that is electrically bonded, from bumper to bumper, utilizing the vehicle's 12v closed loop electrical system. Relies on a novel theory where the RF signal itself provides protection. Their key performance test attempts to prove this by showing an effect from two feet away in an artificial lab setup. This setup intentionally breaks the direct electrical circuit, a design choice they use to argue that their RF signal must be the protective agent by a process of elimination, rather than direct proof in a real-world scenario. Protection is localized and diminishes with distance from the anode. Multiple anodes are often required.
Lifespan The electronic module does not degrade and offers continuous protection as long as it is powered. The electronic module does not degrade and continues to operate as long as it is powered. The anode is consumed over time and must be replaced periodically to maintain protection.
Installation Our modern, patented OBD-II module offers a simple "plug & play" installation that draws only power and ground, ensuring no interference with vehicle computer systems. Requires an invasive, direct hard-wired connection to the vehicle's battery, which may involve disconnecting terminals. Anodes must be strategically placed and electrically bonded to the vehicle chassis.
Maintenance No maintenance required. No maintenance required. Requires regular inspection and replacement of the sacrificial anodes.
Power Source Draws a small but potent and measurable DC current (24mA) from the vehicle. This provides the necessary energy to perform electrochemical work and actively protect the steel. Draws an insufficient 3.6 milliwatts. After powering its own circuits and inevitable energy loss from converting DC to AC, the broadcasted power is less than a Bluetooth headset—an amount incapable of performing meaningful work. This is a fundamental energy deficit. Generates its own current through the galvanic reaction between the two different metals. No external power is needed.

Myth Busted: "It only works when submerged"

A common myth is that our technology needs the vehicle to be submerged in water to work, misapplying science from marine vessels. This misunderstands how the system is engineered specifically for vehicles.

It Works Like a Thermostat, Not a Light Switch

The system is engineered to provide a constant, regulated supply of electrons. In dry conditions, this protective shield is simply on standby. When road salt and moisture create a corrosive environment, this steady supply of electrons becomes critical, actively neutralizing the electrochemical reaction of rust where it's needed most.

Vehicles are a "Closed-Loop" System

Marine protection systems are designed for an "open circuit" and use the ocean as their ground. A modern vehicle is the opposite: a self-contained, closed-loop electrical system. Our module (especially the new OBD-II version) uses the car's own battery and wiring to deliver protection. It doesn't need an external element like the ocean because all the necessary components are already on board.

Myth Busted: "It will void my warranty or harm my electronics"

A major concern with any aftermarket product is its impact on the vehicle's warranty and complex electronic systems. Our OBD-II module is specifically engineered to be a non-issue.

A Simple, Safe Connection

Our patent for the OBD-II module is precise: it only connects to the pins for continuous power and chassis ground. It does not "talk to" any onboard computers, gather any data, or interfere with any of the vehicle's electronic systems. It's an electrically isolated, one-way street; it draws a tiny amount of power to do its job and nothing more. The available OBD-II inline connector cable also enables dealerships to provide a spot-deliverable, professional installation.

View Technical Brief

Protected by the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act

This U.S. federal law makes it illegal for a dealership to void your warranty simply because you've installed an aftermarket part. They must prove that our module directly caused a specific failure. Since our device is isolated from all data and control systems, it cannot be the cause of an unrelated electronic issue. This is a level of consumer protection that goes beyond the standard safety certifications (like FCC or CE) that competitors often list—those just prove a device won't catch fire, not that it won't cause warranty headaches.

Patents & Compliance Documentation

Explore the foundational patents and official government correspondence that validate our technology.

Patent 5407549A: Hard-Wired System

Granted: April 18, 1995

The foundational patent for our impressed current cathodic protection technology. This original design was hard-wired to the vehicle's battery and established the core principles still in use today.

View on Google Patents

Patent 10982338B2: OBD-II Plug-and-Play System

Granted: April 20, 2021

The evolution of our technology. This patent covers the innovative use of the OBD-II port for a simple, non-invasive, "plug & play" installation, making advanced corrosion protection accessible to all vehicle owners.

View on Google Patents

Industry Canada Advisory

Issued: July 22, 1997

Following a review of the CRIQ laboratory findings, the Competition Bureau of Canada issued an advisory opinion confirming that our marketing claims—that the device "slows down the natural corrosion process"—were acceptable.

View Scanned Document

Competition Bureau Discontinuance

Issued: July 17, 2008

After mandating further independent testing (the 2007 ITS report), the Bureau officially discontinued its inquiry, concluding the test results were "adequate and proper" and demonstrated a significant corrosion inhibition effect.

View Scanned Document

The Standard of Proof: Not All Evidence is Equal

In the world of automotive protection, claims are easy to make, but credible proof is rare. The AutoSaver System's performance is not based on internal findings or theoretical math; it is a government-verified fact. Our technology was formally investigated by the Canada Competition Bureau, which mandated its own independent, third-party testing to verify our claims. The results were so conclusive that the investigation was officially discontinued. This is the highest standard of proof in the industry, and it is what separates our proven technology from all others.

A Legacy of Applied Science

The Methodology of Integrity in Electronic Corrosion Protection

For over 35 years, our approach to electronic corrosion protection has been guided by a simple, unwavering principle: innovate through the rigorous application of established science. Our technology is not a re-imagining of physics; it is a testament to the power of engineering proven principles to perform reliably in a new and challenging environment—the modern vehicle.

Section 1: Our Foundation — Innovation Through Application

The core of our technology is a novel and robust application of a century of proven science: DC-based Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP). The system was born from experience in advanced military avionics, where reliability, adherence to physical principles, and effectiveness are not negotiable.

The Engineering Challenge

The innovation was not in reinventing science, but in solving a critical engineering problem: how to adapt a proven industrial technology to the unique, closed-loop 12-volt DC environment of an automobile. The result is an elegant, patented circuit design that performs this function with unwavering reliability, a solution rooted in discipline and rigor, not theoretical contrivance.

Designed for Dealers, by Dealers

Born from decades of experience at the highest levels of dealership management, this technology was engineered to be more than a product—it's a strategic asset for the F&I office. It provides a scientifically validated, high-value offering that is both profitable and fully compliant with evolving regulations. By focusing on vehicle longevity, it promotes a powerful sustainability narrative that reduces the automotive sector's environmental footprint, creating a win-win for the dealer, the customer, and the planet.

Section 2: Our Proof — A History of Independent, Unadulterated Testing

A claim's validity is measured by the quality and transparency of its proof. For over 25 years, our technology has been consistently submitted to respected, independent third-party laboratories for validation. In every instance, testing has been conducted under unadulterated, industry-standard protocols.

1997: Centre de recherche industrielle du Québec (CRIQ)

Our earliest public validation established a foundation of honesty and scientific accuracy. The testing was performed in strict compliance with the ASTM B 117-94 standard, using the full 5% salt concentration. The conclusion was direct and free of hyperbole: the system demonstrably "slows down the natural corrosion process."

2007: Innovative Test Solutions, Inc. (ITS)

A decade later, a more expansive test was conducted to further validate performance. This comprehensive study involved 24 test panels, multiple variables (galvanized vs. non-galvanized), and a 600-hour duration under the rigorous 5% NaCl standard. The results were unequivocal, showing a clear, immediate, and stable protective potential shift on panels equipped with the system compared to the unprotected control panels.

2019: Innovative Test Solutions, Inc. (ITS) - OBDII Module

The most definitive proof of performance comes from the testing of our modern OBDII module. This test included a crucial ON-OFF-ON cycle, providing an undeniable demonstration of cause and effect. The data, visualized below, speaks for itself.

Demonstration of Electrochemical Control (817 Hours)

SYSTEM ON (0-340 hrs): The protective potential is immediately established and held stable, suppressing the natural trend toward corrosion.

SYSTEM OFF (340-656 hrs): The moment the system is deactivated, the potential immediately and consistently drifts into a more corrosive state (less negative).

SYSTEM ON (656-817 hrs): The moment the system is reactivated, the corrosive trend is instantly arrested and reversed, proving direct electrochemical control.

Instant, Verifiable Proof in Your Hands

Beyond lab reports, our technology's effectiveness can be verified in real-time. Because our Impressed Current technology provides a steady, measurable flow of Direct Current (DC), you can see it working with a simple ammeter. This isn't theoretical; it's tangible proof of the constant, protective current delivered to the vehicle's chassis.

The Live Ammeter Demonstration

This video provides a live demonstration with a standard DC ammeter, confirming the constant, protective current our OBDII module supplies. It's real-time, physical evidence of our system actively protecting the vehicle.

Section 3: Our Philosophy — Honesty in a Market of Hyperbole

In a market often characterized by exaggerated claims, our philosophy is one of transparency and respect for the customer. We present our data directly and make claims that are scientifically sound and proven through decades of independent validation.

Why We Reject Theoretical Marketing Math

The Tafel Equation is a valid scientific formula used to calculate a corrosion rate at a specific point in time under controlled lab conditions. However, we believe it is misleading to extrapolate a single data point from a short-term test into a headline marketing claim like "99.7% reduction." Real-world performance isn't measured in a test tube for a fleeting moment; it's measured in years on the road. For this reason, we choose to present our independently-verified test data directly, without theoretical exaggeration.

Our Claim: Scientifically Accurate and Proven

We stand by the same honest conclusion reached by the experts at CRIQ in 1997: our technology is proven to "slow down the natural corrosion process." We recognize that nothing stops rust forever. Our goal is to apply the proven principles of ICCP to demonstrably extend the life and preserve the value of your vehicle.

The Pragmatic Choice for Real-World Driving

Even if a vehicle is kept in ideal, dry conditions, real-world driving is unpredictable. A single road trip through the winter salt belt, a visit to a coastal region, or an unavoidable encounter with a gravel truck can introduce the catalysts for corrosion. Our module is a low-cost, one-time investment that provides a permanent, proactive safeguard for the vehicle's structural integrity. While a ceramic coating protects the shine, our system protects the steel. For a fraction of the cost of cosmetic enhancements, it provides active, proven protection against the single most destructive force affecting a vehicle's long-term value and safety.

A Legacy of Trust

Our commitment is not just to our technology, but to our customers. For over 35 years, we have stood behind our product, our warranty, and our scientifically-validated claims. Our A+ rating as an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau is a testament not to marketing, but to a long history of integrity and customer satisfaction.

The Evidence Visualized: Lab Test vs. Real World

This comparison highlights the most critical distinction: the competitor's data comes from a controlled lab scribe on a protected panel, while our data proves performance on bare steel—the real-world equivalent of a severe stone chip.

AutoSaver's Proof: A Real-World Impact

Our strongest data comes from testing on galvanized and bare, non-galvanized steel. This simulates a real-world stone chip that blasts through all coatings, including the zinc, proving protection when it's needed most.

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Clearcoat (~40µm)
Paint (~20µm)
Primer (~25µm)
Zinc (~7µm)
Steel Panel
BARE STEEL

A real-world impact exposes bare steel.

AutoSaver protects the steel directly.

Electrochemical Potential (V) -0.500 -0.575 -0.650 -0.725 -0.800
-0.574 V
Unprotected
-0.739 V
With AutoSaver
(-165mV Shift)

*Data from ITS Report 015-05015-4 (2007) using ASTM B117 standard 5% NaCl on both galvanized and non-galvanized steel.

The Competitor's Proof: A Lab Scribe

Their data comes from testing a clean 'scribe' on a painted, galvanized steel panel. In this scenario, the surrounding zinc layer is still present to provide its own sacrificial protection.

Clearcoat (~40µm)
Paint (~20µm)
Primer (~25µm)
Zinc (~7µm)
Steel Panel
Scribe Line
Electrochemical Potential (V) -0.55 -0.60 -0.65 -0.70 -0.75 -0.80
-0.60 V
Unprotected
-0.75 V
With Other Tech
(-150mV Shift)

*Data from CCT Report 617497-v1, using a non-standard 3.6% NaCl solution on scribed, galvanized, painted panels.

Independent Laboratory Reports

A chronological record of third-party testing that validates the effectiveness and safety of our electronic corrosion protection systems.

CRIQ Report

Date: July 15, 1997

The initial independent, ISO-certified lab testing that confirmed the module slows the natural corrosion process. This report, conducted in a salt spray chamber, was foundational for the Industry Canada review.

View Full Report (PDF)

Intertek (ITS) Report

Date: March 15, 2007

Mandated by the Competition Bureau, this report confirmed cathodic protection on both galvanized and non-galvanized steel. Testing was performed to the ASTM B117 standard and was crucial in the discontinuance of the Bureau's inquiry.

View Full Report (PDF)

QTS Report for EV/Hybrid

Date: July 20, 2018

This report specifically addresses the safety and compatibility of our modules with Electric and Hybrid vehicles. It confirms no negative impact on high-voltage systems or isolation fault detection, ensuring safety and compliance.

View Full Report (PDF)

Intertek (ITS) Report for OBD-II

Date: February 8, 2019

This test validated the effectiveness of the new "plug & play" OBD-II module. It confirmed the presence of cathodic protection that retards the onset of oxidation, proving the new design maintains the performance of the original.

View Full Report (PDF)

The Standard of Proof

Our credibility is built on a foundation of rigorous, unbiased, and real-world validation. These are the pillars that prove our technology works.

Real Chemistry

Tested against an aggressive 5% Sodium Chloride (NaCl) solution to simulate real-world road salt.

Quantitative Data

Verified by independent labs using electrochemical potential measurements for objective, numerical results.

Bare Steel Proven

Effective on raw, non-galvanized steel—the ultimate real-world test of protection.

Government Reviewed

Testing and claims were reviewed and validated by the Competition Bureau of Canada.

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