09/03/2026
🔩 HOW DOES RUST ACTUALLY SEIZE PARTS TOGETHER?
Ever wonder why a mechanic says, “It’s rusted fast” or “We may have to cut it out”?
Rust is doing a whole lot more than making the metal look ugly.
On a microscopic level, when iron or steel reacts with oxygen and moisture, it forms iron oxides—rust. And here’s the important part:
👉 That corrosion takes up more space than the original metal did.
When rust forms between two tightly fitted parts—like a bushing and control arm, a bolt and sleeve, or two suspension components—the corrosion products grow into the tiny spaces between them.
Think of it like millions of microscopic wedges being driven between the parts. 🔨
As corrosion continues, those wedges build up, create tremendous pressure and friction, and can eventually lock the pieces together so tightly that penetrating oil, an impact gun, heat, or even a press may not be enough.