How long does it take for a car door to rust through?
2 Answers
There is no fixed time for rusting through. If rust is found on the car door, it should be treated promptly to prevent the rust area from expanding. If the rust appears on the surface and the area is small, you can use water sandpaper to grind off the rust and then spray a layer of anti-rust paint. If the door is severely rusted, with large areas of paint peeling off, the rusted paint must be completely removed, followed by filling and leveling with putty. After the putty hardens, repainting is required. Below is an introduction to car maintenance: 1. Exterior inspection: Before driving, check the condition of the doors, hood, trunk, and glass, and inspect the body for damage, tilting, or any oil or water leaks. 2. Engine and various fluids: Check the fastening of engine components and inspect the joints for oil or coolant leaks. Adjust the tightness of the belt and check the fastening of pipes and wires. Top up engine oil, coolant, and electrolyte as needed. 3. Tires: Check tire wear and clean the trunk. Replace tires when they approach the wear indicators. Inspect tires for bulges, abnormal wear, aging cracks, or other damage. 4. Cleaning and lubrication: Clean oil stains from the engine hood, door, and trunk hinge mechanisms, and lubricate them. The general service life of antifreeze is 2 years, after which it should be replaced during maintenance, and the cooling system should be thoroughly cleaned. Due to the hygroscopic nature of the braking system, brake fluid should be replaced every two years.
I once drove an old car where the door rusted through completely in just about a year or two after it started rusting. At the time, I was working in a coastal city where the salt in the sea breeze was particularly corrosive to metal. Combined with minor scratches that weren't promptly repainted, rainwater seeped in and accelerated the rusting process. The rust started as small surface spots, then spread inward until the entire door panel perforated, making it impossible to close properly. I quickly took it to a repair shop for rust removal and repainting. They also recommended regular car washes, especially after rainy days, as cleaning is crucial. If left untreated, rust can spread even faster, compromising the structural safety of the body. Actually, every car is different depending on how you maintain it. It's best to inspect the corners of the doors annually as a preventive measure.
