Can Structural Adhesive Repair Rust Holes in Cars?
2 Answers
Structural adhesive cannot repair rust holes in cars. Methods for treating rust holes in cars: Use a grinding machine to sand off the paint on the rusted area of the car; weld a steel plate of appropriate size to the rusted hole; after welding, use the grinding machine to smooth the weld points; apply putty to the repaired area, wait for the putty to harden, and then sand the surface smooth; finally, spray paint on the repaired area. Introduction to structural adhesive: Structural adhesive refers to a high-strength adhesive that can withstand large loads, is resistant to aging, fatigue, and corrosion, and maintains stable performance over its expected lifespan. It is suitable for bonding structural components that bear strong forces. It can be used to bond metals, ceramics, plastics, rubber, wood, and other similar or dissimilar materials. It can replace traditional connection methods such as welding, riveting, and bolting. The stress distribution on the bonding surface is uniform, and it does not cause thermal effects or deformation on the parts.
I also enjoy DIY car repairs and have tried using structural adhesive to patch small rust holes. That experience taught me it only temporarily seals the hole—it may look fine at first, but soon falls off. Despite its strong adhesion, structural adhesive can't replace missing metal or restore the original strength of the body; rust often spreads stealthily beneath the adhesive, enlarging the hole months later. Car rust is fundamentally a corrosion issue—it must be thoroughly sanded and removed, otherwise it poses significant safety risks, such as accelerating metal fatigue on bumpy roads. My advice for rust holes: first assess the size—small spots can use glue as an emergency measure to block wind and rain, but it's not durable. For a long-term solution, visit a repair shop for welding or panel replacement to ensure safety and rust prevention. Daily protection is crucial—regular car washing and waxing can prevent rust from starting.
