How to Fix Rust on a Car

If your car’s paintwork starts bubbling or peeling, it could be a sign that rust has set in. Rust can cause serious issues for your vehicle if left untreated, eroding the metal on the chassis and frame. However, rust repair is relatively straightforward and is a worthwhile investment to prolong your car’s lifespan if it’s in the early stages of rusting. Our guide covers what causes rust, ways to prevent it, how to treat rust on a car and the best products to use.

What causes cars to rust?

Any part of your vehicle’s exterior can rust, from painted areas on the car’s body to the undercarriage. The undercarriage is one of the most susceptible areas to rust since it’s exposed to significant moisture and debris from the road. Other common areas where rust may occur include the exhaust, brake pads, suspension, wheel wells and doors.

Consider checking your car for rust regularly so you can treat the problem as soon as possible and prevent corrosion from worsening, which could lead to costly repairs.

How to remove rust from a car

First, you’ll need to identify what type of rust is affecting your car. Surface rust is easy to repair yourself, while scale rust and penetrating rust may require professional attention. Follow these steps to get the best results on your vehicle:

Before you start the rust removal process, ensure you are wearing the correct PPE, including gloves and goggles.
Use an abrasive sanding block to buff away the rust, taking care not to scratch the surrounding paintwork.
Clean the surface using a damp cloth to remove any excess debris and leave it to dry.
Once all rust is removed, apply a protective product, like Hammerite Waxoyl, to prevent further rusting.
If your car’s paintwork needs touching up, wait until the treatment is dry before painting.

Need more advice on how to remove rust from alloy wheels, paintwork or your vehicle’s undercarriage? Consult our step-by-step guide for more general tips for exterior and interior metal, along with the products and tools you’ll need.

How to protect cars from rust

Washing your car regularly is one of the best ways to protect it from rust. This removes any debris or substances from the surface that could lead to corrosion. After washing, it’s recommended to apply a specialist automotive wax, as this creates a moisture-proof barrier between your car’s exterior and the elements.

But what is the best car underbody protection? Hammerite Underbody Seal is the best way to protect your vehicle’s undercarriage from rust and prevent damage from stones or debris.

At Hammerite, we have rust removal products suitable for cars and other vehicles. Explore our automotive collection to find the right option, including Waxoyl for rust-proofing, Stonechip Shield for corrosion resistance and Underbody Seal for heavy-duty protection from abrasion.

Want to tackle rust on other exterior surfaces around your home or workplace? Discover Hammerite Ultima. This convenient two-in-one product is a primer and protector, creating a tough barrier to prevent corrosion for up to 12 years. It’s suitable for almost any metal surface and can be applied over rust.