How to Get Rid of Rust

Did you notice a bit of rust on the door of your truck, SUV, or sports car? There is no reason to panic, but repairing the rust now will extend the life of the bodywork. Fortunately, tackling small corrosion spots is entirely doable with a little time, effort, and a body and paint kit.

Steps for Repairing Rust on Your Vehicle

You should complete any rust fix in an enclosed garage where dust cannot get blown onto the surface you are painting. Clean between each step. Excellent preparation of the damaged area will give you the best result.

1. Remove the Rust

Depending on the size of the rust spot, use sandpaper or a grinder to remove all the flaking, bubbling rust until you get down to the polished bare metal. It should be smooth to the touch. Feather the sanded spot into the surrounding paint for a more professional finish.

2. Clean the Sanded Spot

Use a mild detergent and tacky rag to rinse away all the rust from the damage and surrounding area. If you leave bits of rust behind, it will get trapped by the paint and lead to more corrosion.

3. Add Filler and Shape

Purchase an epoxy body filler kit at your parts store. Use the filler primer first and let it dry. This creates a good surface to bond with the epoxy. Mix the epoxy and layer it into the damaged area, following the shape of the car body. Once the epoxy is dry, you can sand it again to get a better match to the lines of the vehicle.

4. Prime and Paint

Purchase a matching paint kit from your dealership. First, spray on a primer coat and let it dry. Apply the finish color coat per the directions on let it dry again. You just repaired your rust spot!

What Causes Rust on My Car?

Rust occurs when the steel on your vehicle reacts with oxygen. Since the air we breathe and even the rain is packed with oxygen, any exposed steel will eventually rust. It happens faster when the paint or undercoating on your ride is damaged from scratches or salt.

Hidden Rust is the Real Problem

While rusting door panels are the most obvious sign of old age and deterioration on any vehicle, the real trouble starts on the undercarriage. The steel frame of your car is not painted, so it is always exposed to the salty sea air that you enjoy when living at the beach. A failed frame is far more dangerous than a mottled door. Have your car inspected annually and have it repaired when rust is spotted.

Protecting Your Ride and Avoid Rust

The best way to slow the progression of rust on any car is to keep it sheltered and clean. Park in a garage or covered carport if possible and bring your baby to the car wash often. Washing it rinses away the dust and dirt that can damage the protective coatings. Always opt for the undercarriage rinse.

Knock Out All the Rust at Your Huntington Beach Body Shop

If repairing rust is out of your DIY comfort zone, or if you see more rust than you are prepared to tackle, the body shops down at the Beach Boulevard of Cars are ready to help. From small jobs to undercarriage coating to full restorations, we can take the work and the worry off your plate. Give us a ring to schedule your rust repair today.