How to Remove Rust From the Underside of a Car
Protecting your car from rust is very important, but most of us do not realize that our car--bright and shiny from all obvious angles--may be suffering from a serious attack of rust that is out of sight. The most common place for rust to form and cause damage is actually the bottom of the vehicle, which is not protected from moisture like the painted upper exterior. The best way to keep rust from seriously damaging your vehicle is to routinely clean the underside of the car to remove all rust.
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Things You'll Need
- Rubber cleaning gloves
- Lantern or flash light
- Sand paper
- Scrubbing pad
- Safety glasses
- Strong liquid detergent
- Dust mask
- Cleaning rags
- Broom
Instructions
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Put on all your protective gear. The only way to access the underside of a car is to get underneath, which means you are going to be on your back as you clean. Put on your gloves to protect your hands as well as goggles and a dust mask to prevent rust from getting in your eyes, nose, mouth or lungs.
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2
Use the kitchen scrubbing pad to remove excess rust. You will need the lantern or light underneath the car with you so that you can see clearly. Rub any rusty areas lightly with the scrubbing pad, and most of the rust should come off in flakes or a fine dust.
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3
Wipe down the entire underside of the car. Use a wet cleaning rag with several drops of the strong liquid detergent. This will remove oil and grease as well as much of the rust residue. Make sure that you wipe down the wheel wells as well as exposed metal underneath the car. Give the area about 10 minutes to dry before you move on.
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Sand off any stubborn rust spots. Use light pressure to remove the rusted spots that did not come off with the kitchen scrubber. Do not keep sanding once the rust is gone.
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Wipe down the car again using the detergent and water. This will help you see clearly whether there are any spots left that are rusty.
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Dry the underside of the car with a clean, dry cloth. This will help prevent the moisture from the cleaning from causing new rust to form as soon as you are done. You can sweep out the area under the car using the broom.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure to wear protective gear to keep rust out of your face.
