How to Remove Rust from Car Body at Home
Materials You’ll Need
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
- Lemon juice
- Potato
- Wire brush
- Sandpaper
- Primer
- Paint
Instructions
1. Prepare the Surface
Before you start removing the rust, you need to prepare the surface. This involves washing the car to remove any dirt or debris, and then drying it thoroughly.
2. Apply Baking Soda and Vinegar
One of the most effective ways to remove rust is to use baking soda and vinegar. To do this, mix equal parts baking soda and vinegar in a bowl to form a paste. Apply the paste to the rusted area and let it sit for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, scrub the area with a wire brush to remove the rust. Rinse the area with water and dry it thoroughly.
3. Use Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is another effective rust remover. To use it, simply apply lemon juice to the rusted area and let it sit for 30 minutes. Scrub the area with a wire brush to remove the rust. Rinse the area with water and dry it thoroughly.
4. Try a Potato
If you don’t have baking soda or lemon juice, you can try using a potato to remove rust. To do this, cut a potato in half and rub the cut side on the rusted area. The potato will release an acid that will help to dissolve the rust.
Scrub the area with a wire brush to remove the rust. Rinse the area with water and dry it thoroughly.
5. Sand the Area
If the rust is still present after using the above methods, you may need to sand the area to remove it. Use a fine-grit sandpaper to gently sand the rusted area until the rust is gone.
Be careful not to sand too much, as this can damage the paint.
6. Prime and Paint the Area
Once the rust has been removed, you need to prime and paint the area to protect it from further rusting. To do this, apply a primer to the area and let it dry. Then, apply a coat of paint to the area and let it dry.
Tips
- If the rust is deep, you may need to use a rust converter before priming and painting.
- You can also use a commercial rust remover if you prefer.
- Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when working with rust removers.