What is rust through on a car?

A hole, or metal gone soft and jagged, means rust has eaten right through the panel. There is no sound metal left there to repair.

What kind of repair does it need?

The rusted section is cut out and new metal is welded in. Then it is filled, primed and painted. This is metal work more than paint work.

Class of work Metal fabrication, then refinish.

New metal is cut in and welded. Paint is the last and smallest part. On an older car, this is when to decide whether to keep it.

What to do next

Go to a panel shop. On an older car, rust through a structural area can cost more than the car is worth. It will also affect a roadworthy if you sell. Get the quote before you spend anything else on the car.

Sources

  1. GarageWeldingblogThe visible face may need primer, surfacer, color, and clearcoat…

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Related

What is surface rust on a car? Light brown staining with the paint still smooth is rust at its earliest and cheapest stage. Learn why acting now saves money. What is rust under car paint? Blistered or bubbled paint means rust is growing underneath, usually wider than it looks. Learn what repair it needs. What is hem rust on a car door? Rust along the bottom edge of a door comes from inside the folded seam. Learn why this starts inside and works outward. What is filiform corrosion on a car? Fine worm-like tracks creeping under the paint on aluminium panels are filiform corrosion. Learn why this is not rust.
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