How to Get Rid of Rust in the Car: Expert Solutions

4/11/2024

Rust – it's every car owner’s worst nightmare! Not only does it tarnish your vehicle's appearance and drop its value, but it can even lead to long-term structural damage if you let it go unchecked. Whether you're living in a humid area or driving daily through the harsh Aussie conditions, rust in the car can be a relentless foe.

The good news? With the right knowledge and a proactive approach, you can prevent rusting in the car. In this guide, we’ll explore what causes rust, how to spot it early and expert solutions to keep your car rust-free.

What is Rust in the Car?

Rust is the result of a sneaky chemical reaction involving iron, oxygen and water. When metal gets wet or is exposed to moisture in the air, oxidation kicks in, breaking down the iron and forming rust.

Once it takes hold, rust on a car spreads rapidly, weakening the metal components and compromising the overall structure. It can even create holes in critical areas like the frame, wheel wells and exhaust system. Regular maintenance and rust prevention measures are essential for keeping your vehicle in tip-top shape.

What Causes Rust in the Car?

Rust can creep up on any vehicle if certain conditions are met. Therefore, it’s important to look into these factors that contribute to rust formation.

Moisture

Moisture is the primary culprit behind rust, as water, rain and humidity trigger oxidation.

Materials

Steel is highly prone to rust, while aluminium offers better resistance but can still corrode under certain conditions.

Age

Older cars are more vulnerable to rust as their protective coatings wear down over time.

Driving Style

Frequent driving on muddy or wet roads wears down the protective layers of cars, trapping moisture and debris, significantly increasing the risk of rusting.

Maintenance Routine

Poor maintenance accelerates rust formation. Dirt can trap moisture and scratches left unrepaired expose metal.

Types of Rust on Car

Rust can develop at different stages, each progressively more harmful to your vehicle. Watch out for these various types and know what they mean for your car.

Surface Rust

Surface rust is the earliest and simplest form of rust to fix. It often appears as small, reddish-brown spots on the surface of the metal. At this stage, it's important to treat the rust quickly. If addressed early, surface rust can often be removed through sanding and a new coat of paint.

Scale Rust

If surface rust is not treated, it can develop into scale rust. This type of rust affects not just the surface but also the paint, causing it to bubble and peel away. Scale rust weakens the metal beneath, making it more susceptible to further corrosion.

Penetrating Rust

Penetrating rust is the most severe type, where corrosion eats through the metal, creating holes and threatening the car's structure. This type of rust poses safety risks and requires extensive repairs.

Common Locations of Rusting in a Car

Rust can form in several areas of your car, particularly where moisture and debris tend to collect. Being aware of these spots can help you catch rust early and prevent further damage.

1. Frame Rails

Frame rails are exposed to elements like water, dirt and road salt, making them highly vulnerable to rust. Damage in this area can weaken the overall structure of the vehicle and can affect safety and performance.

2. Wheel Wells

Wheel wells are continually exposed to water, dirt and debris from the tyres, increasing the risk of rust. Moisture can accumulate in this area, creating conditions that encourage corrosion.

3. Exhausts

Over time, the heat and condensation in the exhaust system can cause corrosion, which can lead to costly repairs.

4. Suspension

The suspension system can trap moisture and debris, especially when driving on wet or muddy roads. This buildup can lead to rust on various components of a car.

5. Floor of the Boot (Trunk)

Water leaks or spills in the trunk can create moisture accumulation, potentially leading to rust over time.

6. Windscreen

Rust can form around the seals of the windscreen due to water getting in. If this rust in the car’s windscreen is not addressed, it can weaken the structure and lead to additional damage.

7. Doors

Moisture can be trapped inside door panels and create a perfect environment for rust to develop.

The Damage Rust Can Cause to Your Car

Neglecting your car could lead to more damage than you might anticipate. From ruining your car’s look to putting your safety at risk, here’s why you need to act fast before rust takes over.

Diminished Appeal

Rust gives a car an old and neglected appearance. This unsightly damage can turn heads away, making your vehicle look less appealing.

Reduced Value

Rust can significantly decrease a car's resale value. Potential buyers often view rust as a red flag, leading them to offer lower prices or avoid purchasing the vehicle altogether.

Compromises Structural Integrity

Prolonged rust weakens the car's frame and structural components. This can make the vehicle less stable and increase the likelihood of accidents.

Costly Repairs

What could have been a simple fix can turn into a significant expense if rust is left unattended.

Signs of Rust in Your Car

Rust can sneak up on your car if you're not paying attention. So, look for these key indicators to catch rust early and prevent serious damage:

1. Bubbles

Small bubbles or blisters under the paint surface often indicate that rust is developing beneath. These bubbles are formed when moisture gets trapped and leads to corrosion over time.

2. Puddles

If you notice water pooling inside your car, particularly in areas like the trunk or footwells, it may signal a leak. Accumulated moisture can promote rust formation, so it's important to investigate any unusual puddles promptly.

3. Body Damage

Signs of visible damage, such as dents, cracks, or flaking paint, can be early indicators of rust in the car. These flaws can expose the metal underneath and increase the risk of corrosion.

4. Irregular Paint

Discolouration, peeling, or uneven patches in the paintwork can suggest that rust is forming beneath the surface. Such irregularities often point to a compromised protective layer.

Rust on Car: Expert Solutions

When rust appears on your vehicle, different levels of damage require tailored solutions. Here are some expert approaches to tackling rust and preventing further corrosion:

Sanding and Body Filling

This method is ideal for treating surface rust. The rusted area is sanded down to remove the corrosion and body filler is applied to smooth out any imperfections before repainting.

Patch Repair

Panel Replacement

When rust damage is severe and compromises the car's structure, replacing the affected panels is necessary. This process involves cutting out the damaged metal and welding in new panels.

Using Rust Removal Spray

Rust removal sprays are a budget-friendly option for treating light rust. However, they typically provide only a temporary fix, so it's important to monitor the area for any signs of rust returning.

Professional Car Paint Correction and Protection

Hiring a professional for paint correction and protection offers long-term benefits. This service not only fixes existing rust issues but also acts as a protective coating that helps prevent future rust formation.

How to Prevent Rusting in Cars

Taking proactive steps can help protect your vehicle from rust damage. We recommend practising some practical ways to keep rust at bay and maintain your car’s longevity.

Fix Any Scratches or Dents Immediately

Promptly repair any scratches or dents to prevent moisture from penetrating the metal. Even minor damage can lead to rust over time if not addressed spot on.

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