How does rust affect car value?

Does rust affect your car’s value?

Yes, rust is one of many factors that can affect your car’s value. The amount of value lost will depend on the severity and location of the rust.

A small amount of rust shouldn’t have too big an impact. However, it’s important to keep it in check, as rust can spread to larger and more critical areas, causing more significant value loss.

You can track your car’s value with our free car valuation tool. Remember to provide as much detail as possible about its condition or history to ensure an accurate valuation.

How concerning is rust on a car?

Once a car has been on the road several years, a small amount of rust can be considered normal wear and tear, meaning the impact on value is minimal.

However, if rust has been allowed to spread and worsen, this can cause more serious structural damage that can significantly reduce its resale value and compromise roadworthiness. Excessive corrosion in certain ‘prescribed areas’ (within 30cm of safety components such as the brakes, steering, seatbelt, suspension, and mountings) can lead to MOT failure.

Unfortunately, widespread rust is difficult and expensive to treat – and in severe cases, you may have no option but to scrap your car. So, if you have concerns about worsening rust, nipping it in the bud promptly can save you a lot of time, money, and hassle.

Unchecked rust can lead to serious structural damage, costly repairs, and even force you to scrap your car - early prevention is key.

How much does rust devalue a car?

Rusting can devalue a car by 10-20%, although more value may be lost in severe cases:

• Minor, surface level rust (i.e. small spots that can be treated easily) may devalue your car by around 10%.
• Rust that is extensive and/or affects structural areas may result in 20% value loss or more.

Body panels

Minor rust spots on the body panels may reduce your car’s value by around 10%.

This type of rusting is usually cosmetic and surface level, meaning it can be treated to remove the rust - and then re-sealed to help prevent future damage.

Rust damage on body panels can significantly impact your car's value and requires timely treatment to prevent further deterioration.

Frame and chassis

Rust affecting the frame and chassis can devalue your motor by 20% or more.

When rust spreads to structural areas, the durability and safety of the car could be compromised, causing a more severe drop in value. Rust on the frame and chassis can also cause MOT failure.

Severe rust on the frame and chassis can compromise safety, lead to MOT failure, and significantly reduce your car’s value.

Mechanical components

Mechanical components, such as the engine, are less commonly affected by rust. However, engine rusting can occur in humid conditions - with severe consequences. A rust-damaged engine may require costly repairs (or even full replacement), forcing you to decide whether to repair or sell your car.

In many cases, if an older car needs a full engine replacement, selling is the better option, as repair costs often exceed the car's remaining value.

Rust on mechanical components, though less common, can lead to costly repairs or even full engine replacement, making selling a more viable option in some cases.

Suspension and undercarriage

If rust spreads to the suspension and undercarriage, your car may lose 20% of its value, as this is a structural area.

Rust in the suspension and undercarriage can severely impact structural integrity and significantly reduce your car’s value.

Should I use a DIY car rust remover?

Using a DIY car rust remover can help you tackle surface rust before it spreads and corroders further and deeper.

Considering that severe rust can cost thousands of pounds to rectify – or even damage your motor beyond economic repair, taking a proactive approach to rust prevention could be well worth the effort.

Is it worth removing rust from my car?

Whether it’s worth removing rust from your car will depend on your priorities and the severity of the problem.

If the rust is minor and easily treatable, you can often improve your car’s appearance and resale value without breaking the bank. What’s more, if you’re planning to sell your car privately, taking care of any minor rust issues can make the process easier and help you maximise your returns.

However, if you’re dealing with more widespread rust that has reached structural areas or mechanical components, you should obtain a few quotes from reputable local mechanics. Once you know the potential cost, you can determine whether the work is feasible.

How much does it cost to remove rust from a car?

Here are some ballpark costs for professional rust repairs in the UK:

• Minor surface rust: Repairing rust that hasn’t spread extensively (or deeper than surface level) can cost £100 to £300.
• Moderate rust repairs: If the rust has spread over a larger area or has reached a critical component, repair costs may range from £400 to £1,000. The work could require sanding, resealing, repainting, and/or panel replacement, which reflects the higher cost.
• Extensive rust repairs: When rust causes structural damage, repairs are often more elaborate and expensive, as some affected parts may need replacement. To rectify the damage, the mechanic may need to weld, replace panels, or even replace the entire frame or engine.

These repairs usually cost £1,000 or more. Your insurer may simply decide to write off your car if it requires such extensive work.

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