After every cook, scrub the grates while they’re still warm. A simple wire brush does the trick. Then oil them lightly. Routine is boring but powerful.
Buy a grill cover. They’re ugly, like a raincoat for a robot. But they work. Also, store your grill in a dry place if possible. Garages are rust-free havens.
And here’s the playfulness: you can sprinkle dry rice in the bottom of the grill. Rice absorbs moisture. It’s weird, but it works. Your grill will smell like a sushi bar, but rust hates humidity.