Need Advice on BE's Minor Rust...

[AWD-in-VT]

So I've got some of the classic New England rust creeping under my the paint of my '02 GT. It is between the bumper and rear panel on that seem. It seems like it is happening because water can get in between that rubber molding and the body.

I want to nip this in the bud before it gets out of hand because weather in Vermont can destroy a Subaru in no time.

I am going to seek quality professional help, but i wanted to know what i'm getting into here.

-Does anybody know the procedure of how this is remedied in the best manner?

-Does anybody know the cost range?

...I'm thinking some of my plans for this car will be put on hold until i can put a stop to the rust.

P.s. I had a nightmare about my car turning from a nice Titanium Pearl to a Rust color.

[Huffer]

First thought - deal with it NOW, and find a body shop that ISN'T interested in cutting corners. Not the cheapest place, but with the guys that make you feel like an appreciated customer.

if you have a pic of the area, we can tell you if it is a replaceable panel, or if it will have to be a sand and repaint job.

Final thought - once rust is IN a panel, there is no stopping it. Rust particles are like cancer - ask anyone in the panel business. The best you can do is remove as much of it as you can, and keep the car dry and in a damp-free environment as much as possible.

The preparation, paint and bake for rust removal jobs is a HUGE deal. Sanding and priming in an environment that is damp (unless they are wetsanding) means that moisture (even in the AIR) will be trapped between the paint and the metal.

[badbasser98]

i have a bit of this myself, although only due to the previous owner backing into something and denting the trunk causing a small rust spot. I had it estimated at $777 and some change (this was also with a very small area on the front fender well). At that point (above rear fender), you will have to bring it to a good shop that can blend the paint well. To do that they will need to paint a rather large area, so be prepared to spend a bit more than it may seem, this will be mostly for labor. If you plan on keeping the car for some time, get it done now and spend the money to get it repaired properly.

PS - i am in Burlington almost twice a week.

-BB98