Should You Worry Yourself Over a Small Rust on Your Car?

by Bronson Motor Speedway | Thursday, Mar 31, 2016 | 423 views

Car Rust Spot in Auckland“Iron worm,” a term that pertains to one of a metal’s greatest enemies: rust. Rust can appear almost anywhere in your car. You may find this as a brown staining on your fender, a paint bubble on your vehicle’s door, or soaking floors after passing through a puddle. When you experience these issues, it only indicates one thing: your ride has a rust problem.

Many cars that are in otherwise good condition have seen premature failure due to rust. Fortunately, there are many ways you can prevent rust from turning into a full-blown corrosion. Understanding how the process behind rusting works, the most commonly affected areas, and the best ways to address such issues will help you get the most out of your pride and joy.

What rust is

Rust basically refers to oxidation, a process wherein iron-based metals undergo electrochemical breakdown. During oxidation, when surface molecules come into contact with oxygen in the air, they produce another kind of molecule called Fe2O3, or iron oxide.

Over time, most metals, like steel and iron, will turn completely into iron oxide and other types of constituent elements.

Types of rust

Rust in and on cars come in three different types: surface rust, scale rust, and penetrating rust.

Surface rust is the first telling sign you have a rust issue. Nicks on the pain, scratches, and cracks usually cause this type of rust. Fortunately, fixing this is a breeze.

Scale rust is more serious than surface rust, as the chemical process already leads to surface corruption and reduced strength of the metal components of your vehicle.

Penetrating rust occurs when you delay repairs of surface and scale rust. Over time, your ride’s metal parts will turn into brittle iron oxide, and you can already expect the formation of holes and major damages to develop.

Preventing rust, especially penetrating rust

You can easily prevent decay and disintegration brought about by rust and corrosion. The most obvious prevention is to wash and clean your car regularly so that its body and underside do not accumulate scratch- or nick-causing problems on the paint.

In the event that you already have a more serious case of rusting issue, bring your car straight to a rust repair specialist like Breen Panelbeaters in South Auckland. They will do everything they can to bring back your ride’s gloriousness and beauty.

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