CAR RUST REPAIR

Rust is that dirty orange-red-brown coating that corrodes metal exposed to air and water. First, rust forms on exposed surfaces. If untreated, that surface rust flakes and proceeds out and downwards, eventually eating right through the metal. Salt speeds the whole process up.

Rust is a form of corrosion. When it comes to the metal on your car, think of rust as holes-in-training. They weaken the integrity of the body and less visible parts of your vehicle. If untreated, rust also detracts from your vehicle’s resale value and is a potentially dangerous hazard. We strongly recommend contacting your local Maaco shop right away when you notice any rust.

Costs for minor rust repair can be as low as some sandpaper, touch-up paint and elbow grease. However, more advanced rust repair can cost thousands of dollars. So, at some point, you need to consider the diminishing returns. Decide how long you want to keep your ride roadworthy and how much work and rust repair cost it will take to get it there.

Rust is to cars what aging is to people. Meaning? It’s unavoidable, but you can minimize the harm by addressing it early. Maaco’s process to fix rust on a car or truck requires four vital steps. First, we sand the patch of rust down to the remaining metal beneath. Then we add body filler to bond that newly exposed space. Next, we sand that filler down, so the bonded area is flush with the surrounding surface. Lastly, we repaint the entire panel to match the original color. Then it’s beautiful again. But here’s the, um, rub. These steps make rust repair sound simple but even light rust is never easy to fix. It’s highly skilled work. Talk to the pros at your local Maaco to get it done right, right away.

Maintaining a paint job doesn’t just keep your ride looking beautiful, it protects against the natural rusting process. Your local Maaco shop helps with repair and maintenance, including rust repairs. Before that point, here are some useful tips to prevent the spread of rust:

• Check your vehicle regularly for new scratches and dents, as this is where rust is likely to form.
• Wash and wax your vehicle at least once a month. Be sure to wash within the wheel wells, as well as beneath the vehicle. If you’re washing it by hand, use carwash detergent and not everyday soap from around the house.
• In addition to cleaning the exterior, clean your vehicle’s carpets and protective mats. Your footwear is in constant contact with these surfaces and can spread salt onto the rocker panel beneath the door.
• Remember, rust is a verb and is constantly looking for exposed metal. Your vehicle is most vulnerable at the vehicle’s connection points. Use a flashlight to closely inspect the following areas:
  • Near and under the sunroof, trims and molding
  • The wheel wells and the undercarriage
  • The door and rocker panel (that base piece you see when you open the door)
  • The area attaching the mirrors

Better still, have Maaco’s skilled experts conduct this thorough review for you. Any rust on the surfaces could mean much more elsewhere on your vehicle. If there are any areas with rust, get an estimate and halt the spread early. Additionally, if you find small (or big) dents that need fixing or sections that need painting, Maaco is here and happy to help.