How to Remove Small Rust Spots and Paint Chips On a Car
by Jenny CarverRocks, bugs and other debris can hit the surface of your car's paint, causing the paint to chip off. Once the paint chips off to reveal the bare metal, moisture reaches the metal and rust forms. If you don't stop the rust early, it can spread underneath the surrounding paint and cause substantial damage in a short period of time. Remove small rust spots and paint chips to keep your car rust-free and looking good.
Step 1
Sand each paint chip and rust spot with 320-grit sandpaper. Sand until the rust is gone and the hard edges of the paint around the chip are smooth.
Step 2
Wipe the sanded areas with wax-and-grease remover and a microfiber towel. Paper towels leave lint on the surface, so use a microfiber or lint-free cloth. Let the remover dry for five minutes.
Step 3
Apply touch-up paint to the areas, using a hobby paint brush. The brushes in the paint applicator are very stiff and can leave brush strokes. Use a small, soft paint brush to apply a thin coat of paint. Let the paint dry for 20 minutes.
Step 4
Add a second coat of paint and let it dry for 20 minutes. Use a total of three or four thin coats of touch-up paint, letting each coat dry for 20 minutes. Let the last coat dry for a full day before touching it.
Tips
- Polish your entire car one week after applying the touch-up paint to help make the paint look even and blend with the original paint even more.
Things You'll Need
- 320-grit sandpaper
- Wax-and-grease remover
- Microfiber towel
- Touch-up paint
- Hobby paint brush
Warnings
- This is paint so make sure you have ventilation.
- I always wear eye protection when removing rust. Rust flaking off can get in your eyes.
Writer Bio
Since 1997 Jenny Carver has served as editor and freelance writer for many offline and online publications including lovetoknow.com, autotropolis.com, "Hoof Beat News," "Import Tuner" and others. Carver owns a custom automotive shop where she has been doing paint and body work, custom interior work and engine building for over 11 years.
