rust on paint
 

My friend came over today to ask me about his paint. From what he told me, the trunk on his car is rusting from four bolts holding a plastic cover. The rust is leaking off the bolt and onto the paint. Now what can I do to get the rust off the paint?



Bri687

Try a clay bar.

Is that my only option?

Probably not, but that's the first thing that comes to mind and is generally the first thing to use to get contaminants out of a clear coat. Detailing clay is quite an invention.

If I understand correctly, this is NOTHING that a clay bar will solve as you're dealing with more of a staining problem than a surficial contamination problem.

Let me reiterate what you've said in a manner that may make a tad more sense -- and then tell me if I'm correct in what I'm describing...

The 'plastic piece' on your buddy's vehicle is held on with a few bolts that are rusting. As a result of these bolts rusting, a 'smear' from the bolts down the paint that is a rusty color has appeared. In short, the bolts are rusting and have stained the paint.

Correct?

If so, it's a tough call sight unseen. What you'll need to use is a paint cleaner of some sort...

Can you get some pictures of this problem area and report back?

I'd suggest a basic cleaner wax for this one. Clay (as RP has already stated) won't really touch it. Remember that no matter what you use, the rust will come back too.