The best rust removers of 2024
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They say that time heals all wounds, but that rule doesn’t seem to apply to rust on your vehicle. In fact, the older the car, the more rust it likely has. Without extremely precise caution and care, rust is an all but unavoidable reality thanks to things like road salt, acid rain, high humidity, condensation and more. Thanks to rust remover, though, you might be able to stop the rust in its tracks. Not only can these rust removers be used on your car, most are also great options for things like cast iron cookware, rusty metal tools and any other rusty surface. Here are the best rust removers for sale on Amazon.
$8.97 at Amazon
Key features
32 oz
Works in 30 minutes or less
Protects bare metal up to 12 months
Inhibits rust
Penetrates every void in the metals surface
Rust-Oleum makes anti-rust products for just about every surface. Their Rust Reformer is a versatile product that penetrates every void inside of the vehicle’s metal surface in order to inhibit stubborn rust and corrosion. This gel works in just 30 minutes or less and can protect bare metal for up to 12 months.
$9.89 at Amazon
Key features
Stops existing rust and corrosion from spreading
Water-resistant
Protects all common metals
Corrosion inhibitor
Long-lasting protection
Protects battery terminals
The Sta-Bil Rust Stopper is able to prevent car rust, or stop corrosion that has already formed and protect battery terminals. It fights against rust and corrosion by leaving a strong protective layer on the paint that will treat the metal.
$16.99 at Amazon
Key features
2-pack
Fast-acting pro formula
pH neutral formula
Easily washes off
Prevents paint failure
Safe for all painted surfaces
This Adam’s Iron Remover has chemicals that help remove iron oxide particles from your car’s paint. Not only does it remove iron, it can take on rust and corrosion as well. This fast-acting formula has neutral pH levels and is safe on any type of painted surface.
$27.97 at Amazon
Key features
Non-corrosive rust remover
Gallon size
No scrubbing or sanding
Reusable
Acid-free
Water-based
The Evapo Rust Super Safe Rust Remover for Auto Parts comes in a gallon-sized bottle which should be more than enough for whatever you happen to be restoring. This heavy-duty rust remover is water-based and doesn’t require any scrubbing or sanding before use. This product is also non-corrosive and won’t harm the material it’s being used on.
$14.50 at Amazon
Key features
7-in-1 metal cleaner
Cleaner, polisher and protection solution
Works on stainless steel, aluminum, chrome, pewter, brass, bronze and copper
No rinse formula
Provides a brilliant shine
Easy to use
This Brasso Metal Polish is a 7-in-1 metal cleaner that is as versatile as it gets. This cleaner works on stainless steel, aluminum, chrome, pewter, brass, bronze and copper surfaces. This product also works as a cleaner, polisher and protection solution and has a no-rinse formula so it can be used whenever you need it.
Why do cars rust?
According to Carfax, “moisture and carbon dioxide in the air mix to create a weak acid that starts to dissolve iron. At the same time, some of the water is being broken down into its separate elements – hydrogen and oxygen. As those oxygen atoms meet and bond with iron atoms, the result is iron oxide. Road salt and other products used to melt ice can speed up this chemical reaction on a car’s undercarriage or in other exposed areas.”
How to use rust remover?
Before using a rust remover on your car, make sure you know if your product is compatible with the surface you will be using it on. Shake the can or bottle and then apply it to the rusted area. Depending on the brand you use, you should either wipe or rinse it off.
