Some cars have small drain holes on the bottom of the car doors which permit rainwater to drain from the undercarriage of the car. If these holes get clogged, water will sit and influence rusting near the door panels.

Honestly you should consult with a Body Shop in order for them to determine how much damage has occured. A combination of sanding to remove the oxidation then treating with a primer can slow down or even stop rusting. I'm in the process of fixing up a 1989 944 Turbo with some body damage, and the shop I'm working with used chemicals to remove all of the paint then blasted the car with a baking-soda based compound to remove rust spots on the undercarriage of the car.

You might want to check your undercarriage and look for any chips and nicks, and also include pictures of the actual rusting. I can only go from your description but your best bet is to visit a local Body Shop or Auto Detailer.

 

Awesome Car!

Anyhoo, all of my Subies except the SVX's rusted at some point.

I used an organic "rust neutralizer" after a cleaning with naval jelly. If you follow the direction on the rust neutralizer (actually, I used Neutra-Rust, found with t/up paint), it stops the rust by sealing it from moisture, etc.


PS - is it a stick w. the 50-50 torque split, or an auto?????
If you ever want to sell it......
If if is stored in the garage, make sure it is always put away dry, and make sure the garage has good ventilation, to let any moisture that does collect on the car get dried away quick.

PSS - as mentioned, check to drainholes. Subaru put them in everywhere, BUT they put in tiny ones that clog up fast.

 

it's a 4EAT for now.... (1-2 years might be a different story :lol: )

IT's a 90/10 front/rear split while driving, but is 50/50 in 1st and 2nd gears.

I guess the best thing is to just take it to a body shop... if i can find a good one.

- anymore info on "rust neutralizer" and naval jelly?

 

sweet ride