The rusted surface of a vehicle cannot be painted over without proper preparation. Painting over rust without removing it doesn’t stop it or make it go away. Even surface rust will continue to cause sheet metal to deteriorate underneath the paint, eventually causing holes in the metal. Rust can be converted to primer using rust-fix spray. This spray stops new rust from forming and can be sanded and painted just like sheet metal.
Things You’ll Need
- Masking tape and paper
- Wire brush
- Rust-fix spray
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Use a wire brush to brush away any loose rust from the surface. Don’t rub it hard — just gently brush away any loose flakes that could fly off and get into the paint.
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Place masking tape and paper over any areas of the vehicle that won’t be sprayed. If the rust spray lands on areas of the car that will later be sanded, the spray can be sanded as well. Make sure to cover trim, glass, lights, door handles and tires.
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Spray the rust-fix spray over the rusted areas, holding the can 6-8 inches from the surface. Coat the rust well with a thick coat of the spray. As it dries, the spray turns black. Once it has dried, it can be sanded just like the other surface areas of the car and then painted over without using more primer.
Tips & Warnings
- Wear safety glasses when working with rust to prevent flakes from getting into your eyes.