Yikes. Almost looks like an archeological find I’m guessing it’s left out in the elements?

 

• If possible, sheltered from weather (away from direct sunlight and protected from rain)

in installation instructions above is listed. they are ‘supposed’ to be be waterproof but if outside i would try and protect it.
mines going to be mounted inside my garage where my Bolt will be parked

 

Mine is a little over three years old, was mounted inside a garage and looks fine. My guess is the unit looks so bad because of where it was mounted. Sounds like it is still working if you want it to look nice you should protect it better. Just my opinion

 

That's one way of looking at it.. not everyone in this life has the $ for a garage though. The severe rust , fading and complete redesign of their product housing make me question the value of what I've purchased. There are other issues but I'm very tired from the night shift and also upset (tired and upset are a bad combination for coherent postings). I will get back with a more detailed explanation and a few questions later tonight ..

 

Face down on a damp dusty garage floor for a few years.
It happens...

Yay! Still works.
Wash it using a light abrasive cleanser. Spritz with some plastic spray, hang it properly and after the next few years it will look fine.

 

Seems like it would make sense to put some kind of cover on it if it is left out in the sun and weather. The cover will need to be replaced every year or two. At least, that's my experience with my Toyota that sits under a truck cover. The sun is brutal in CA and ruins many types of car covers in 12-18 months. But eight covers later, my truck is still like new without faded paint or hardened plastic.

 

....if it is left out in the sun and weather. The cover will need to be replaced every year or two. ..

The cover and the box are made of aluminum with ornamental paint.
Why replace it for the pretty paint? As long as the seals are good and it's dry on the inside,,,, just don't look at it if it bothers you!
I have an early Kit Built Juicebox that uses the same aluminum box, only it's bare aluminum.
I haven't seen it in years. I only touch the cord handle.

 

My guess is that if it is rusted on the outside (visible), it is rusted on the inside. Also, the disruption to the outer cover (seen at lower left) is very problematic. Insects of all types will house within. Hot spots and and short circuits will occur. If at all possible, seal that hole.