How to Patch the Rust on an Automobile

Rust spots on your vehicle can be resolved if dealt with immediately. Larger rusting and holes in the bodywork will require more preparation and work to resolve the problem. Older vehicles suffer rusting and coastal areas enhance rust conditions. The salt from the sea embeds itself into the paint and lifts it, exposing the vehicle's bare metal. Waxing and polishing after cleaning will help prevent bodywork rusting. Patching kits are available from most auto dealers and auto parts stores.

• 1

  Put on eye protection. Rust in the eyes is an uncomfortable and painful experience, and rust is hard to remove from the eyes. Ensure the eye protectors are flush with the face and cover the eyes from all angles.

• 2

  Brush the rust patch. Use the wire brush to remove all the excess rust around the affected area.

• 3

  Sand the area. Use the sand paper to remove all traces of the rust. This method may leave a small hole in the bodywork or take the area back to bare metal.

• 4

  Put on the rubber gloves before mixing the resin. Mix the resin from the rust repair kit according to the manufacturer's directions. The resin may contain material that is irritable to the skin.

• 5

  Cut the fiberglass patch to the size of the rust area. Use scissors to cut a fiberglass patch that will cover the rusted area.

• 6

  Work the resin onto one side of a fiberglass patch from the repair kit using a small paint brush or materials supplied with the kit.

• 7

  Press the fiberglass patch onto the rusted area and smooth down. Leave the resin to dry for approximately 15 minutes. Ensure the resin is dry before you proceed. Outdoor temperatures may affect the drying time of the resin.

• 8

  Sand the fiberglass patch until a smooth finish is obtained.