Hello, I just bought a Lexus RX 300 2003 and I noticed that the gas tank under the car has some rust around a rubber (see attached pictures) I would like to know if I have to be worried for a sudden leak or a future leak. As seen in the pictures the rust is eating away the metal. If I touch it it flakes away. It will make a hole or the tank is pretty thick? I was thinking to apply some rust converter, what do you think? Also what’s that round robber where all the rust has formed all around? (Only there)
Any other advices will be really appreciated.

Thank you so much!

 

Are you sure it is the tank and not the underbody. The rubber you refer to is a plug and I am thinking there has been water/mud collected above it. You can remove the plug and see the extend of the rust damage. You can take it to a bodyshop and get their opinion on how bad is the rust and what they can do for you.

There are paints that prevent rust, but you have to get to bare metal before you can apply it. If you apply on top of rust the problem becomes worse as the moisture has no escape and it keeps eating the metal.

Salim

 

Thank you Salim for your answer.

Let me send you a better picture. I think is the gas tank but I am not sure 100%

Please check the new attached picture I don’t if you can understand if it is for sure the gas tank but it looks like.

Thank you

 

Thank you Salim for your answer.

Let me send you a better picture. I think is the gas tank but I am not sure 100%

Please check the new attached picture I don’t if you can understand if it is for sure the gas tank but it looks like.

Thank you

 

Check from the side(s). I still think it is the shield. I have been wrong many times and can be mistaken this time too.

Salim

 

I checked is not a shield it goes up. I truly believe is the fuel tank. What would be that round rubber? If I press on it it bends, moves, flex (the round rubber) I am just scare to remove it.

Thanks

 

I would put some rust converter on it sand it up a bit light filler in holes then paint it silver. Has grommet rotted?

 

Ha, that's just the bottom of the trunk. Pull your spare tire and you will see the other side of the plastic plug. The gas tank is ahead of the rear axle. You can see it in one of your pictures.

 

As carguy pointed out, [he is always right], then the plug is just s drain plug to remove any collected moisture in the trunk area.

Empty out the trunk [carpet, spare etc] and see if there is wetness there. Give it some sunshine/air.

Salim