How to Prevent and Remove Car Rust

Rust is a car’s worst enemy, especially in regions prone to humidity or where road salt is common in the winter months. Not only is it an eyesore, but rust can also compromise the structural integrity of your vehicle. In this post, we’ll discuss proactive ways to prevent rust from forming and some effective DIY methods for removing car rust from different areas of your car.

Why Does Rust Happen?

Rust forms when metal is exposed to oxygen and moisture over time. If left untreated, it can spread and weaken the metal components of your car. Common areas where car rust forms include:

• Underneath the vehicle
• Wheel wells
• Door sills
• Around the windshield
• Exhaust system

Tips for Preventing Rust on Your Car

1. Regular Washing and Waxing

Road salt, dirt, and moisture can lead to rust if they sit on your car for too long. Regularly washing your vehicle, especially the undercarriage, helps prevent rust. Waxing your car provides an additional protective layer, shielding the paint and metal from moisture.

Tip: Wash your car at least once a month and apply wax every 3-4 months to keep rust at bay.

2. Address Paint Chips Immediately

Even small chips in the paint can expose the underlying metal, making it vulnerable to rust. Inspect your car frequently for paint damage and repair any chips or scratches right away.

Tip: Use touch-up paint to seal chips and protect the metal. Most car manufacturers offer specific touch-up kits for your car’s color.

3. Apply a Rust-Proofing Spray or Undercoating

For extra protection, especially if you live in a humid or salt-heavy environment, consider applying a rust-proofing spray to your car’s underbody. These sprays can form a protective barrier that prevents moisture from causing rust.

Tip: Many automotive shops offer rust-proofing services, but there are also DIY kits available for rustproofing at home.

4. Keep Drains Clear

Cars are designed with drain holes in various areas (like doors and trunk) to allow water to escape. If these get clogged, water can accumulate and lead to rust. Regularly check and clear any debris from these drain holes.

Tip: Use compressed air or a small brush to clean out blocked drain holes.

5. Use a Car Cover or Store in a Garage

If possible, store your car in a garage or use a quality car cover to protect it from the elements. Prolonged exposure to rain, snow, or even morning dew can accelerate rust formation.

Tip: Invest in a weatherproof car cover, especially if you park outside in unpredictable weather.

DIY Methods for Removing Rust

If you’ve already spotted rust on your car, early treatment can stop it from spreading. Here are some DIY methods to help you remove rust from various parts of your vehicle:

1. Surface Rust (Minor Rust Spots on Paint)

Surface rust occurs when the paint is chipped, and rust forms only on the surface level without penetrating deeper into the metal.

Materials Needed:

• Sandpaper (220-320 grit)
• Primer
• Touch-up paint
• Clear coat

Steps:

1. Clean the affected area with soapy water and dry it thoroughly.
2. Use sandpaper to gently sand away the rust, being careful not to damage the surrounding paint.
3. Apply a rust-inhibiting primer to the area and allow it to dry.
4. Once the primer is dry, apply touch-up paint that matches your car’s color.
5. Finish with a clear coat for a smooth finish.

2. Scale Rust (Slightly Deeper Rust)

Scale rust occurs when rust begins to eat away at the surface metal, but it hasn’t fully penetrated the structure. This requires a bit more work than surface rust.

Materials Needed:

• Wire brush or power drill with wire brush attachment
• Sandpaper (120-220 grit)
• Rust converter (optional)
• Primer
• Touch-up paint
• Clear coat

Steps:

1. Use a wire brush to scrape away the rust as much as possible. For larger areas, use a power drill with a wire brush attachment.
2. Sand the area with 120-220 grit sandpaper until the rust is gone and smooth.
3. Apply a rust converter to neutralize any remaining rust (optional).
4. Prime the area, apply touch-up paint, and seal it with a clear coat.

3. Penetrating Rust (Severe Rust)

Penetrating rust is when the rust has eaten through the metal, creating holes. This type of rust can compromise the integrity of your vehicle and often requires professional repair. However, for small spots, you can attempt a temporary fix.

Materials Needed:

• Sandpaper or grinder
• Rust converter
• Fiberglass repair kit
• Body filler
• Primer
• Paint and clear coat

Steps:

1. Remove as much rust as possible using sandpaper or a grinder.
2. Apply rust converter to neutralize the rust.
3. Use a fiberglass repair kit to cover holes or damaged areas.
4. Once the fiberglass has hardened, sand it smooth.
5. Apply body filler, sand smooth again, and finish with primer, paint, and a clear coat.

4. Rust Underneath the Car

Rust on the underbody of a vehicle is common due to its exposure to road elements. Removing rust from these areas is critical to maintaining your car’s structural safety.

Materials Needed:

• Wire brush or grinder
• Rust remover or converter
• Underbody sealant or rust-proofing paint

Steps:

1. Scrape off rust with a wire brush or grinder.
2. Apply a rust remover or converter to treat any remaining rust.
3. Finish by applying an underbody sealant or rust-proofing paint to prevent future rust.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’re dealing with extensive rust, particularly on structural parts like the frame, it’s best to consult a professional. Rust that affects structural components can weaken the integrity of your vehicle and may require welding or part replacement.

Preventing car rust from forming is always easier than repairing rust damage. By regularly washing your car, touching up chipped paint, and using rustproofing products, you can protect your car from the damaging effects of rust. For small rust spots, DIY methods can be effective, but for significant damage, professional repair may be necessary.

Image Credit: Image by wirestock on Freepik