One of the most frustrating parts of owning a vehicle is finding rust on your car door handle or other metal part of your vehicle. If you’ve noticed that the paint on your car is starting to flake off, you’re not alone. This is a common problem that plagues most vehicles at one time or another. The good news is that there is something that can be done to combat this issue. Before we discuss how to stop your car from rust on a car, let’s first understand why rust occurs.
Why do cars rust?
When a car comes in contact with water, it can create rust. This occurs because the metal on your car is made up of iron, chromium, and other chemical elements. When these components come in contact with water or salt from rain, it can lead to rust. How much rust develops depends on the specific weather conditions and how well you care for your vehicle.
How to stop rust on a car?
There are several things you can do to stop your car from rust. Here are some helpful tips!
1. Find the weak spots
Stopping rust means finding the weak spots where rust can reside. Some parts that need extra attention include the sunroof, antenna, under the mouldings and trim, wheel wells, the entire vehicle surface, among others. Take time to inspect these parts and make sure there are no bubbles in the paint and other signs of rust.
2. Use sandpaper
Sanding the affected area is probably the easiest way to get rid of rust. All you have to do is sand down the rusty areas until they are flush with the rest of the metal. Just be careful not to sand off any paint, especially if it’s still in good condition.
3. Use a sealant
If you’ve tried several approaches and you still can’t get rid of the rust, consider using a sealant to protect your vehicle from future corrosion. How do you know what kind of sealant to use? If your car’s manufacturer recommends a particular type of sealant to protect your paint, then use that one. If not, just choose one that is intended to prevent rust or corrosion. Your sealant should be applied evenly over the entire metal surface. Start by applying sealant to one small area, using a sponge brush, and see how it works before moving on to the rest of your car. And always remember: never spray fluid around an engine!
4. Prevent further rusting
Once you’ve gotten rid of all of the rust, it’s time to prevent further rusting. In addition to avoiding substances that cause corrosion, a good way to prevent further rust is by waxing your car regularly. How often you should do this depends largely on the amount of sunlight and the type of environment to which your vehicle is exposed.
5. Keep your car away from water when possible
During a rainstorm or a carwash, it’s important to keep all harmful chemicals away from your vehicle’s paint job so they don’t corrode the metal underneath. It’s also best to avoid automatic car washes because most have brushes that can damage fine layers of paint. Instead, opt for touchless self-service washes, as they are safer for your car’s enamel.
6. Maintain your car regularly
Keeping up with your car’s regular maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent rust. Doing so can help prevent the spread of oxidation and can even prolong the life of your vehicle. This is especially important after your vehicle has been exposed to water in the form of snow or rain. Maintaining your car will help you get rid of any grime that may have accumulated underneath.
Rust build-up is a common problem for any car owner. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Learn how to stop rust from building up on your car, and be sure to get rid of it before it does further damage to your vehicle.
For more car-related tips, or if you’re looking for a quality second-hand vehicle, contact Carfect. Carfect is a used car dealership that buys here and pays here, which means we finance the cars we sell. Visit our website to learn more!
