How to Fix Rust Holes

Rust spots on a car are unsightly, and can make even a car with an otherwise expensive body makeover seem cheap and unattractive. The weak spots can also spread and grow if not tended to. A simple fiberglass patch is the best method of fixing a hole, and can be completed with minimal auto expertise.

Things You'll Need

• Metal shears
• Power grinder
• Sandpaper wrapped around small block of scrap wood
• Release film
• Marker
• Fiberglass
• Filler
• Topcoat
• Spreader
• Primer
• Paint

Instructions

1. Remove the rusted portion with the metal shears, and grind back two inches from any point that was rusted with the grinder.

2. Sand the portion you used the grinder on, before holding the release film up to it and tracing the outline of the sanded area.

3. Cut two pieces of fiberglass. The first piece should be in the shape traced, only an inch smaller on all sides, leaving you with a one-inch border between the piece and the outline if laid atop the release film. The second piece should be one inch smaller than that piece in the same manner.

4. Apply a layer of filler to the release film, large enough to cover the repair area, and place the smaller sheet of fiberglass in the center.

5. Apply a second layer of filler, and center the larger piece of fiberglass.

6. Apply the sheet to the car, with the release paper facing out, and use the spreader to ensure the application is smooth. Allow it to dry before peeling away the release paper.

7. Sand the application gently until it is properly contoured to match the car.

8. Apply a layer of topcoat with the spreader and allow to dry before sanding to match the shape of the car.

9. Prime the spot to your satisfaction, and paint the color of your car's paint job once dry.

References

• How to Repair a Rust Hole