Car rust is probably one of the most common and damaging problems affecting your vehicle. Rust can form on your car’s body, frame, and undercarriage, and if left untreated, it can cause serious structural damage.
Rust occurs when the car metal comes into contact with water and oxygen, and the resulting chemical reaction causes the metal to weaken and break down. The most common cause of car rust is road salt, which is used to melt ice and snow on roads and highways. If you notice any rust on your vehicle, it’s vital to repair it as soon as possible.
Mask Around the Rusted Area
If you have some rust on your car, there’s no need to panic. While it may seem like a daunting task, there are ways to fix rust and prevent it from spreading. The first step is to mask around the rusted area. This will ensure that the rust doesn’t spread to other parts of the car. You’ll need to use masking tape that is at least two inches wide. Apply the tape to the car, making sure to overlap the edges of the rust spot. Once the rust spot is fully covered, you can begin the repair process.
Sand Down the Rust
One way to remove rust is to sand it down. This can be done with a variety of tools, including a sanding block, sandpaper, or a power sander. Start with coarse grit sandpaper and work your way up to a finer grit. Be sure to sand in the direction of the grain to avoid damaging the metal.
Apply a Rust Inhibitor
Applying a rust inhibitor is one way to help prevent further rusting and extend the life of your vehicle. There are a few different types of rust inhibitors on the market, so it’s important to choose a rust inhibitor that is compatible with the type of metal on your vehicle. Some rust inhibitors are designed for use on ferrous metals, while others can be used on both ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
Once you’ve selected the right rust inhibitor, the application process is relatively simple. Most rust inhibitors come in aerosol cans, so you’ll just need to spray the affected areas. Be sure to apply the rust inhibitor evenly and in a well-ventilated area.
After the rust inhibitor has been applied, you’ll need to wait for it to dry completely before driving or using your vehicle. Once it’s dry, the rust inhibitor will create a barrier that will help prevent rust from forming in the future.
Apply a Top Coat
After applying a rust inhibitor, you can further prevent rust by applying a top coat. This is a type of paint that is specifically designed to protect against rust. It can be applied over the existing paint job, and it will help to seal the existing paint and prevent new rust from forming.
Top coats can be found at most auto parts stores, and they are relatively easy to apply. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.
Final Thoughts
Rust on your vehicle is not something to be taken lightly. Car rust can cause extensive damage to your vehicle and is very difficult to remove once it sets in. If you notice rust on your car, it’s important to take action immediately to prevent it from spreading.
Fix the rust on your car with the help of Lucky 13. We are an autobody shop in Edmonton that is dedicated to providing our customers with quality workmanship, trusted service, and competitive pricing. Quality control is part of our mission, and we stand behind our work with a 100 percent guarantee. Get a free quote now!