i got another one...

Hi all. I have a 2002 Xterra and just in the last month or so I have noticed these rust dots on the paint of the truck. Some small and some big and they are starting to multiply rapidly and I don't know what to do. They are mostly toward the back tires and beneath the rear window. How did this happen? The truck is not even 3 years old (at least, since I bought it). Does anyone have any suggestions as to how to get rid of this or if Nissan would cover it? I wash it regularly. Help!

You need to clean your paint. It's surface debris which needs to be removed with a clay-bar. "Meguires" and "Mothers" both make kits for $15-20. It's not a paint defect and isn't an issue for Nissan to resolve, it's owner maintainence. Do treat it before it does become an issue however.

If you want more info there are some threads under "surface rust" I believe.

I use the clay bar 1-2 times a year on both my vehicles. Be sure to follow up with a coat of polish, then a coat of wax. The finish will feel like silk when your done.

That seems easy enough. At which type of stores would I be able to purchase claybar?

That seems easy enough. At which type of stores would I be able to purchase claybar?

Any automotive store, or retail store with an automotive section. Look in the auto-wax isle.

BTW, when you're done and you see how much crap is in the clay, you'll probably buy some more and do the whole truck. Clay is great, just make sure to turn it when things get real dirty.

Great! Thanks for your help.

Finally found my old pics. I also pulled the fender trim yesterday (you should do this every once and a while) and of course found tons of dirt/sand/mud/rocks/etc.

Here's the rust stuff:

http://www.xterra4x4.com/images/bin/rust/rustspot.jpg

To fix:

http://www.xterra4x4.com/images/bin/rust/clay.jpg

Metal underneath flare:

http://www.xterra4x4.com/images/bin/rust/flares.jpg

Dirt on flare:

http://www.xterra4x4.com/images/bin/rust/flarepiece.jpg