Rust is a persistent threat to vehicles, often lurking beneath the surface where it’s not immediately visible. Identifying early signs of rust and taking measures to prevent rustis crucial for preserving your vehicle’s appearance, structural integrity, and overall value.

In this guide, we explore how to spot underlying rust and discuss effective ways to address and prevent rust-related issues.

Detecting Rust -What To Look Out For

1. According to Mark from rust protection company Preserve Protect “Bubbles in the Paint: One of the most noticeable signs of underlying rust is the appearance of bubbles in the exterior paint.” If you observe paint bubbling, it indicates that water and air have penetrated, leading to metal oxidation.
2. Puddles Inside the Car: Water damage inside the cabin or boot may suggest rust underneath. Lift the carpet and inspect the metal beneath for any signs of rust formation.
3. Body Damage: Scratches or dents on the car expose bare metal, making it susceptible to rust. Assess the severity of paint damage and the duration of exposure to estimate the risk of rust development.
4. Non-Matching Paint: Inconsistent paint quality or colour in specific areas, such as wheel arches and door frames, may signal hidden rust. Examine these areas in natural sunlight and feel for rough, flaking textures, which are indicative of rust.

How To Repair and Prevent Rust

Thanks to a host of products available on the market today, you can take steps to repair existing rust and prevent rust from appearing in the future, here’s how:

1. Surface Rust Repair: Surface rust, often seen as paint nicks and cracks, can be addressed by removing the visible rust with an abrasive wheel or sandpaper. Apply a rust inhibitor to convert the remaining iron oxide into a stable compound. Follow up with primer, paint, and lacquer to restore the appearance.
2. Scale Rust Correction: If rust progresses, causing bubbles and roughness, use a wire brush and grinding wheel to remove rust down to the bare metal. Seal the cleaned area with a rust converter and consider using a body filler for visible spots. Finish with primer, paint, and lacquer again to blend with the rest of the car.
3. Penetrating Rust Solutions: Penetrating rust, leading to holes and structural issues, requires more extensive repair. Consider replacing affected parts or using patch panels for bodywork repairs. Avoid using body filler for large holes and prioritise professional inspection and repair for frame rust.

3 Steps To PreventRust Formation

You can take precautions when protecting your vehicle from rust, here are 3 simple measures you can take to prevent rust from forming:

1. Regular Car Wash: Washing your car, including the underside, helps remove corrosive elements like road grime and salt. Modern car washes with undercarriage cleaning features are effective in preventing rust.
2. Inspect and Clear Drain Holes: Check and clear drain holes along the bottoms of doors or underbody parts to ensure proper water drainage. Use a pipe cleaner for thorough cleaning and keep the vehicle’s nooks and crannies dry.
3. Protective Coating: Some vehicles have a protective coating on the underside to seal against oxidising agents. Regularly inspect and repair worn spots and consider adding a rust-protective sealant for additional protection against rust.

By being observantof early signs of rust, addressing issues quickly, and adopting preventive measures, you can extend your vehicle’s lifespan, maintain its value, and enjoy a rust-free driving experience.