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Hi everyone. I have any area on the rear driver's side where rust has appeared. I didn't realize it until it was pretty stark. Is there any way to fix this? Or do I just have to deal with it? See attached.
Rust often starts inside the panel, meaning you won't see it until the damage is done. Two panels come together in that area and I suspect the join wasn't sealed well, allowing moisture, dirt, and salt to work into the seam.
Anything can be repaired if you're willing to pay. Most body shops will give you a free estimate. Prepare to be a shocked.
If the cost of a repair is too much for you, you can slow the rusting process down. There are many posts here detailing how to proceed (including many I have responded to) plus there is always Youtube. Most importantly, if the panel is rusting from the inside, you have to figure out how to stop that.
The metal needs to be replaced to stop it. And if you can see that spot there, there is a ton of rust hiding under the car to match. It's never just in one spot.
The reason that panel rusts is that it's open on the backside and Honda doesn't fit rear well liners.
Easyish options are you can sand it down, rust convert it, patch it, prime it, paint it. But because of the back side getting constantly wet, I would also apply a coating of rust protectant. I've recently bought boeshield, can't say yet if i recommend it.
All GEs, if they are in a salty/wet area, are going to rust here first. And other places under the car like bolts for cat converters etc.