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If you plan to attend the Charlotte AutoFair Produced by Hornets Nest Region, AACA, in Mecklenburg County, NC, then you’ll find yourself enjoying a unique gathering of car enthusiasts. And if you’re in the market for a collector car, be sure to know the warning signs of rust. Purchasing antique cars with rust can place a large burden on your shoulders, but the signs of corroding metal may be hard to determine. That’s why these classic car enthusiasts have put together this guide to help you understand rust and know what to look for at the car show.

Knowing the Signs of Rust

collector carsRust forms through a complex chemical reaction, resulting in corroded metal that weakens the car’s frame and affects its ability to function. Here’s a short list of where to check for signs of a rusty car:

  • The Underside of the Vehicle: While the underside of a vehicle can be difficult to check without a lift, you shouldn’t let this stop you from examining the area before making a purchase. The wheel wells and exhaust are common places that can develop rust. Additionally, the frame of the vehicle, including the rail that runs underneath the doors, should be evaluated.
  • Trunk Carpeting: After you check the underside of the car, open up the trunk. Cars with significant rust damage tend to show stains on the carpet in this area.
  • Doors & Glass: Rust may appear on the doors, as well as around the front and rear windshields.
  • Paint: Thoroughly examine the exterior paint of the vehicle, as bubbling paint is an early warning sign that the vehicle has an underlying rust problem.

Why You Shouldn’t Purchase Rusty Collector Cars

If you’re considering purchasing a classic car with rust, it’s important to know what to expect, as rust goes through three stages. Surface rust, for instance, is a light brownish color that can usually be wiped away with rust cleaner. However, if the vehicle displays signs of pitting rust, then this means the car was exposed to high levels of moisture for extended periods of time. Even wiping away the rust itself will leave you with damage and deterioration on the vehicle. Finally, be wary of cars demonstrating panel rot, an indication that rust has worked its way completely through the metal. Properly repairing cars in this condition can be expensive, as one small hole may actually be a sign of much larger problems.

Unless you’re prepared to cover the costs of extensive rust damage, purchasing collector cars that display these signs may be a larger burden than you’d like to bear. Attending the Charlotte AutoFair means you’ll have the opportunity to view and shop for numerous classic cars, so take your time and find the perfect one for you! If you have any questions about vendors or the event itself, feel free to reach out to them at (704) 841-1990. You can also find updates on their Twitter or website.

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