Repair Body Rot on Car Wheel Well Ford Escape

Introduction

Body rot is a common problem on cars, especially in areas where there is a lot of salt or moisture. The wheel wells are a particularly vulnerable area, as they are exposed to the elements and can be damaged by rocks and debris. If you notice any signs of body rot on your Ford Escape, it is important to repair it as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading.

Tools and Materials You Will Need

To repair body rot on your Ford Escape wheel well, you will need the following tools and materials:

* Safety glasses
* Gloves
* Dust mask
* Wire brush
* Sandpaper (80-grit and 120-grit)
* Body filler
* Bondo spreader
* Sanding block
* Primer
* Paint
* Clear coat

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Safety first. Before you begin, put on your safety glasses, gloves, and dust mask.
2. Clean the area. Use a wire brush to remove any loose rust or debris from the affected area.
3. Sand the area. Use 80-grit sandpaper to sand down the affected area until the bare metal is exposed.
4. Apply body filler. Mix the body filler according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply the body filler to the affected area using a Bondo spreader.
5. Sand the body filler. Once the body filler has cured, use 120-grit sandpaper to sand it smooth.
6. Prime the area. Apply a coat of primer to the repaired area. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Paint the area. Apply a coat of paint to the repaired area. Allow the paint to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Clear coat the area. Apply a coat of clear coat to the repaired area. Allow the clear coat to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Tips

* If the body rot is extensive, you may need to cut out the affected area and weld in a new piece of metal.
* If you are not comfortable repairing body rot yourself, you can take your car to a body shop and have them repair it for you.
* To prevent body rot from recurring, you should regularly wash your car and wax it to protect the paint.

Conclusion

Repairing body rot on your Ford Escape wheel well is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few hours. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save yourself a lot of money and keep your car looking its best.