Types of Rust

07/22/2024
Car Rust Damage

When people see rust on a car, they assume that it’s purely a cosmetic issue. However, there are several different types of rust and some of them are indicative of a deeper problem. To avoid further complications, rust repair and removal should be done as early as possible. For more information, consider the most common types of rust on vehicles.

3 Common Types of Rust

1. Surface Rust

Surface rust is the beginning stage of vehicle rust. It is the most superficial type, but it’s also an indication that it’s time to take your car into an auto body shop for rust repair. Undergoing repairs in this stage will be simple, similar to when you need to get scratches or paint problems fixed. In fact, many body shops can address surface rust using a specialized type of sandpaper and a fresh coat of paint. They’ll also add a protective coat of rust inhibitor to keep the damage from spreading.

2. Scale Rust

Scale rust occurs when surface rust isn’t addressed. It’s the next stage in the progression of damage. Scale rust is characteristic of its flaky appearance and you may notice chips of the affected metal falling apart as it advances. This can leave your car’s components exposed and more susceptible to damage. Scale rust is repaired by brushing away the affected area, smoothing it with a grinding wheel, finishing it with sandpaper, and filling any areas that have degraded. Rust repair is finalized with a protective layer and a fresh coat of paint.

3. Penetrating Rust

When scale rust goes untreated, it can eventually turn into something called penetrating rust. This can cause structural damage to your vehicle, thus severely diminishing its overall longevity. Penetrating rust has already started to eat through your car’s metal and if not addressed, can lead to complete replacement. This is why rust repair is so important during the early stages.

If you notice any signs of rust developing, bring your vehicle in to Adrenaline Auto Body in West Salem, WI. This professional auto body repair shop is adept at removing imperfections with unparalleled attention to detail. In addition to rust repair, they also dent removal, auto painting services, and even detailed cleaning. They serve drivers across La Crosse and Jackson counties and always offer fast and affordable services without sacrificing quality. To learn more about them, visit their website. You can also visit their Facebook page to see their latest work or call (608) 350-6382 to schedule an appointment today.

Adrenaline Auto Body | 608-350-6382 | derek@adrenalineautobody.com |