How to Repair a Rusted Car Surface


Rust is not an uncommon problem to old cars that are usually left out in the rain or not stored in the garage. Years of exposure to wind and other forces of nature can dilute a car's protective coat of paint, leaving the surface vulnerable to corrosion. Once the metallic layer of the car's surface is exposed to moisture, oxidation takes place and eventually leads to the formation of rust. This is common to most types of metal.

Fortunately, there are ways to restore the brand-new look of the rusted cars. However, since some severe rust buildups are no longer treatable by any restoration methods, it is important to deal with the problem as early as possible. Few materials are needed to remove the rust, as well as restore the beauty of the car's appearance. These materials include sandpaper, primer and car paint, a clean piece of cloth, and a vacuum cleaner.

The procedure can be easily completed in your garage at home. There are auto body repair shops in affluent cities like Beverly Hills that offer modernized techniques of restoring the appearance of a car after years of rust-caused damage. These services are often more expensive compared to traditional repairs done in other shops. Nonetheless, for those with tight budgets, here's a DIY method for removing rust from a car's surface.

First, check for spots that are affected by rust buildup and spots that are already severely faded. Start rubbing the rusted region with 120-grade sandpaper and a hard rubber block, until the rust is gone. Professional cleaners in a Beverly Hills auto body shop use masks to keep themselves from inhaling rust dust.

Wipe the surface with a clean cloth properly to prepare it for coating. Shake the primer container thoroughly before spraying the primer on the portions to be painted. Like other painting companies, most Beverly Hills auto repair shops use primer to maximize the adhesive property of the paint.

After allowing the primer to completely dry, smooth the surface by rubbing with fine-grade sandpaper. Once the surface is ready, spray the paint on the surface at a distance of 6 to 8 inches, to control the paint's impact on the surface. Most Beverly Hills auto repair experts prefer to do second paint applications to completely balance the color and shading of the paint.