The problem with powder coating on virgin steel is that it can easily delaminate allowing moisture to get in and you know the rest. [5-Speeder mudguards/headlamp brackets etc, etc.]
While visiting a local low volume car manufacturer recently they explained how they have their chassis and suspension components shot blast before being powder coated. This gives the best possible adherence of the coating to the metal and has proven to be very robust.
As an aside, I must admit to being dismayed at the quality of the Super3 wishbone welding when visiting the factory in October. I suspect the parts are built down to a price when (considering the vehicle cost) they should they should be works of art, especially as they are on full view.
