Faint orange and yellow blemishes can affect the appearance of your vehicle. The rust initially may seem like just an aesthetic problem, but if left untreated, it can severely damage the paintwork. A lot of people struggle to get the answer to how can you fix the rust on a car.
The good news is that rust is highly treatable. You can treat surface-level rust at home with the help of some tools and products. But if it develops into a penetrating one, then you may need the help of professional car wash companies in Maribyrnong, Melbourne. In this blog, you will discover easy steps to fix rust on a car, but before this, you need to understand the types of rust and how they impact your paintwork to protect your vehicle.
How Rust Develops On Your Car’s Exterior
The rust can negatively impact the paintwork of your car. It develops on the surface when metal is exposed to moisture and oxygen. This process is called oxidation, and it causes yellow or brownish spots on the surface.
The scratch marks and cracks on the surface expose the bare metal. These exposed surfaces, when they come in contact with moisture from rain and humidity, start to oxidise. Also, road salt can speed up the reactions. When this happens again and again, then metal begins to weaken, and paint starts to strip off.
Initially, rust may look like small surface spots, but if left untreated, it can spread under the paint. It can also make panels flake or crack. Rust impacts the appearance of a vehicle and reduces its resale value. It can lead to costly repairs if ignored. It is important to understand how can you fix rust on a car to avoid heavy damage and lower resale value.
Types of Car Rust That Impact Your Vehicle
Rust can be of different types and impact your vehicle in multiple ways. Here are some common types of rust that you should watch out for:
Surface Rust
Surface rust occurs when the outer layer of metal is exposed due to scratches or paint damage. This is a beginner-level rust and can be treated well if immediate actions are taken.
Scale Rust
Scale rust is a more severe form of surface rust. It forms when surface rust is left untreated. Due to this rust, the metal begins to flake and pit. In addition to that, body panels lose strength and require more repair work.
Penetrating Rust
Now, if scale rust is left untreated, it can convert to penetrating rust. It occurs after long-term corrosion. Penetrating rust can severely damage the metal of a vehicle. Untreated penetrating rust can lead to costly repairs afterwards.
Tools and Materials Required To Fix Rust on a Car
| Tool or Material | Purpose |
| Sandpaper or Wire Brush | Removes loose rust and damaged paint from the surface |
| Rust Converter | Stops rust by converting it into a stable layer |
| Body Filler | Fills small holes and uneven areas after rust removal |
| Putty Knife or Spreader | Applies body filler smoothly onto the surface |
| Primer | Protects bare metal and prepares it for paint |
| Automotive Paint | Restores colour and protects the repaired area |
| Clear Coat | Seals the paint and adds durability |
| Safety Gloves and Mask | Protects hands and lungs during the repair process |
Simple Steps To Fix Rust on a Car
Once you gather all the tools and products required for removing rust, you can follow the steps below to remove the oxidized layers effectively.
Step 1: Assess the Rust Area
The first step is to identify the level of damage caused by rust on your vehicle. Examine your vehicle correctly and see if it is just the surface-level rust or an advanced scale or penetrating rust. Through understanding the severity of rust, you can decide whether to fix it at home or get professional help.
Step 2: Clean the Affected Area
After identifying the rust, wash the affected area with pH-neutral soap and water to remove the contaminants. Once washed, dry it properly to avoid any cracks or crevices. The polished surface makes it easy to adhere sanding products properly.
Step 3: Remove Loose Rust
Use sandpaper or a wire brush to remove all loose rust and flaking paint. For surface rust, 120–220 grit sandpaper works well. Make sure to reach bare metal around the rust spot.
Step 4: Apply Rust Converter
If rust remains in small pits, apply a rust converter. This chemical stabilises the rust and prevents it from spreading. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and allow it to dry fully before proceeding.
Step 5: Fill and Smooth the Surface
For deeper rust spots or small holes, use body filler. Mix it as per instructions and apply with a putty knife. Once dry, sand it smooth with fine-grit sandpaper until it is flush with the surrounding panel.
Step 6: Prime the Metal
Apply a primer to the repaired area. Primer protects the bare metal and improves paint adhesion. Use thin, even coats and allow each coat to dry completely.
Step 7: Paint the Area
Apply automotive paint that matches your car’s colour. Use multiple thin coats rather than one thick layer. Let each coat dry as recommended to avoid streaks or runs.
Step 8: Apply Clear Coat
Finish with a clear coat to seal the paint and add durability. This protects against moisture and UV and thus prevents future rust formation. Let it cure fully before touching the surface.
Step 9: Polish and Maintain
Once dry, gently polish the area to blend with the surrounding paint. Regular washing and waxing help prevent future rust formation. Inspect the area periodically to catch any early signs of corrosion.
Preventing Rust On a Car
Removing the rust from the surface is one thing, but what if we tell you that there are ways that can help you prevent the rust from developing in the first place? Here are some of the simple tips you can follow to prevent rust on a car:
- Wash your car regularly and dry it after rain or wet roads.
- Repair paint chips and scratches as soon as you notice them.
- Apply wax or a protective sealant every few months.
- Clean wheel arches and the underbody to stop moisture build-up.
- Keep your car in a garage or covered area to protect it from the weather.
Common Mistakes To Avoid While Fixing Rust on a Car
Fixing rust on a car through DIY methods can prove to be highly cost-effective, but some drivers make mistakes that further damage their paintwork. So if you’re considering to fix rust on a car at home, then make sure to avoid these common mistakes:
- Ignoring minor rust spots and let them spread over time.
- Using the wrong tools or cleaners can damage paintwork.
- Skip proper cleaning before sanding or applying treatments.
- Failing to seal the repair with a primer or clear coat.
- Choosing products that are not rust-resistant and wear down quickly.
- Applying paint or primer too thickly, causing runs or poor adhesion.
Fix Rust On A Car With Professional Help
By fixing rust on a car at home, you can save a considerable amount of money. But in case of severe damage, the home treatments might not work. This is where you need the help of professional car wash companies. If you’re struggling with rust on the surface, then give a visit to Gold Hand Car Wash in High Point, Maribrynong.
We provide excellent hand car wash and Best car detailing services that protect and improve the paintwork of your vehicle. We offer ceramic coating and car wax or polish as well, which adds further protection to your paintwork. By regularly monthly visits to our car wash company, you can protect your vehicle from rust damage.
FAQs:
Why does rust develop on a car?
The rust develops on a car due to the process known as oxidation. The cracks and scratches on the paintwork expose metal surfaces. When these surfaces come in contact with oxygen and water, yellowish-brownish spots appear on the vehicle, and the paintwork starts to scratch off.
Can I fix rust on my car at home?
Yes, you can fix surface rust on a car at home by using sandpaper and a rust converter. However, penetrating rust may require professional attention.
Can penetrating rust be treated?
Yes, penetrating rust can be treated, but it requires excessive work and the help of a professional, as it involves cutting out the rusted section and welding in new metal.
How to protect my car from rust?
You can protect your car from rust by properly inspecting the vehicle each month for scratches or cracks. You should wash your car twice a week and get professional car wax and polish to protect the paintwork.
Does ceramic coating help to stop rust?
Yes, ceramic coating acts as a protective layer for your vehicle. It prevents cracks and a rough surface on the vehicle. Due to this, the chance of rust development is reduced.