Lots of rust on rail below glovebox

[the428]

Hi there! I just purchased a used C max with 35,000 miles on it. It is in great condition. I replaced the cabin air filter today and removed the glove box and there was a substantial amount of rust on the round rail below the glove box. Does anybody have an idea what could have caused it? Do I have a leak somewhere? Thanks for the help.

[C-MaxA2]

 Could you share a picture of the situation?  Hard to visualize.  About the only thing I can think of is that the windshield is somehow leaking (replaced at some point).

[icanhazc-max]

In my experience, a lot of structural metal behind plastic vanity pieces isn't treated with the same rust inhibitors as the main body itself. I had a Lexus LX470 prior that had rust on the metal all throughout the center console when I tore into it to remove the archaic CD changer, even in areas where, no, a beverage couldn't have permeated if spilled. Unless you see moisture puddled or dripping profusely from somewhere, I'd chalk it up as normal oxidation of untreated metal. These vehicles today aren't designed nor built to last decades.

[the428]

Thanks for the info ican. That makes me feel better. It did spend quite a bit of its life in the Seattle area so a very damp climate. The car is in super good shape and all the painted areas are in perfect condition. The rail that I'm talking about below the glove box is definitely raw untreated metal