To repair rust on a car, sand down the rusted area, apply rust converter, then prime and repaint the surface to restore protection. Deep rust may need filler or professional repair.
Rust is one of the most widespread and annoying issues that car owners encounter, particularly when they live in a wet, rainy, or coastal region. It begins with small areas, but when not cured, it may grow to consume the body of the car, destroy the paint, and even compromise the basic strength. Light to moderate rust can be fixed at home with some care and simple supplies.
Every day, we correct severe rust problems at Royal Prince Auto Care. However, in case you only have small rust scars or corrosion on a surface, this guide will demonstrate to you the safe repair of car rust before it can spread.
Why Does Rust Form on Cars?
Rust comes about when metal and oxygen combine with moisture over time. This is accelerated by salt, particularly sea air salt, that is sprayed onto roads in the winter. The following are some of the causes of car rust:
- Scratches or chips where bare metal is shown through the paint
- Moisture that is enclosed by dirt or paint
- Accumulation of salt on undercarriages or wheel wells
- Inadequate cleaning or other car wash schedules
Unless caught early, rust may develop into holes and eventually demand the replacement of the entire body panel or major repair by a body shop team.
Types of Rust on Cars?
Surface Rust:
This manifests itself in tiny brown or orange patches and does not affect the structure. It is simple to rectify.
Scale Rust:
Just a little more than surface rust. It peels and pummels the metal, though it is possible to sand it down and treat it.
Penetrating Rust:
This is the most dangerous one. It consumes the flesh of metal, and it might require to be welded, replaced, or specialized classic car recovery.
Can You Fix Rust at Home?
Yes, you can fix surface or scale rust at home. However, deep rust that creates holes in the body or affects the car’s frame should always be left to professionals like Royal Prince Auto Care, where our car repair and bodywork experts use safe, lasting solutions.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
To repair rust at home, gather the following:
- Sandpaper or a wire brush
- Rust converter or rust remover
- Body filler (for small pits)
- Primer (automotive-grade)
- Touch-up paint or matching spray paint
- Clear coat
- Masking tape and paper
- Microfiber cloths
- Safety gloves and goggles
For best results, work in a shaded, dry area to avoid dust and wind ruining your paint job.
Step-by-Step: How to Repair Rust on a Car
Step 1: Check and clean the area
First of all, clean the area using car soap and water. Dry it with a microfiber cloth. See how rusty it is.
When it is just superficial or a bit scaly, you can go ahead. However, in case you feel that you can break through the metal or observe holes, take your car to Royal Prince Auto Care to obtain a professional car inspection.
Step 2: Rust Sanding
Sand it off with 80-120 grit sandpaper or a wire brush until all the rust is sanded off. Sand till you get clean and shiny metal. You will also need to blend the edges of the paint around it.
When a power drill is used that has a sanding attachment, take care not to overdo it or take off good panels in the process.
Step 3: Rust Converter/Remover Step
Once sanded, a rust converter should be applied to destroy all the remaining rust particles and inhibit further spread. Dry it according to instructions (usually 30-60 minutes).
Other products blacken the rust and seal it so be painted.
Step 4: Fill Deep Pits (Optional)
In case sanding creates small pits and rough spots, a thin coating of body filler can be used. Allow it to dry, and smooth out with 220-400 grit sandpaper.
This assists in establishing a smooth painting surface.
Step 5: Cover the Region
Wrap the area around with masking tape and paper or plastic sheeting. Just expose the area that you will be painting.
Cover glass, trim, and lights that are in close vicinity to prevent overspray.
Step 6: Prepping the Area
Two to three thin coats of car primer. Allow one coat to dry thoroughly before proceeding with another one. Intercoat sand lightly as necessary.
This process covers the metal and provides something of a grip to the paint.
Step 7: Paint
Make use of corresponding car paint (depending on your car color code). Use some thin layers and allow each of them to dry. This avoids drips and assists in matching the finish.
Spray in smooth strokes 6-8 inches off the panel to obtain optimum results.
Step 8: Clear Coat
Once the paint is dry, apply some clear coats to protect and shine. Allow it to dry for at least 24 hours.
Upon drying, polish with cloth which is clean cloth to obtain a smooth finish. The car polished a few days after, will also give the result an added boost.
What to Avoid During Rust Repair?
Omit rust converter: Any remaining rust will come back quickly.
Painting on rust: Traps moisture, and later, bubbling will occur.
Out in the full sun: Causes paint to dry unevenly.
The rust under the car: It can be concealed by floor panels and undercarriages.
When you notice that the rust is spreading in places that are not easy to reach, such as your frame or the underbody, then it is better to bring your car so that it can be repaired at Royal Prince Auto Care, such as having your suspension repair or structural rust control.
The Best Tips on How to Avoid Rust Return
- It is essential to wash your car regularly, whether in winter or along the coast.
- Use a car ceramic coating or paint protection film to use over the long term.
- Never leave your car wet after washing.
- Repair minor paint chips fast.
- Park your car in a garage or under a shade where possible.
Those maintenance activities that you regularly take your car through, such as car detailing, not only make your car shine, but also enable you to detect signs of rust before they grow big.
Final Thoughts
Rust resembles a pace disease to your car- it begins small and may spread when not taken care of. The silver lining is that most of the more minor rust stains are suitable to be handled in the comfort of your home. Given a few tools, a little time, and a clever approach, you can halt rust in its tracks and give your car the appearance you want.
Now, you have to keep in mind that when you are in doubt of how serious it could be or the damage appears to be deep-rooted, you should always seek the expertise of the specialists at Royal Prince Auto Care. Whether you are after a simple car repair, a thorough job with car polishing, or a total makeover at our body shop, we will take care of your car.