If you incur a minor scratch on your leg, the scratch will most likely heal over time. However, if your vehicle gets a dent, the dent will not go away unless something is done about it. Fortunately, metal and plastic automobile bodies are somewhat pliable. So, with knowledge on how to fix a fender bender you may be able to restore your car’s appearance.
Have you been involved in a fender bender that wasn’t your fault? You should consider seeking the help of Los Angeles Car accident attorneys from El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers. We can help you pursue the compensation you need for possible damages.
Here are some of the top methods on how to fix a fender bender.
1. Use a Suction Cup
If you’re facing a shallow concave dent, a suction cup can help. Clean the damaged area, and then squish a suction cup into it. Pull straight out, until the dent pops. However, a suction cup may not help with a complex dent or crease.
2. Get Some Hot Water
Since plastic is highly pliable, removing dents is a simpler process. Fill a pot with water and boil it. After that, pour the hot water over the dented region, so that it can soften the plastic. From the back of the bumper cover, try to push out the dent. The method works moderately well, even for deep dents. But, it may not lead to a perfect appearance, because the plastic has already lost its proper shape.
3. Utilize a Hair Dryer and Compressed Air
Hot and cold air can also help in repairing a fender. Take a hairdryer to heat up the part with the dent, and then freeze it using compressed air. The heat will expand the area, while the cold will shrink it, which will pull out the dent. That method is highly effective on shallow dents in plastic parts, but may also work for metal areas. Instead of a hairdryer, you can use a heat gun.
4. Fix With Glue and Pulling Handles
A worthwhile DIY repair method is sticking wooden dowels to a dent using hot glue. The dowels will allow you to pull on different areas of the dent. But, you’ll need to be patient; wait for the glue to set properly. Then, pull the dowel straight at an angle to remove it. You can use a hairdryer to soften the glue for a simpler removal process.
5. Repair with Body Filler and Repainting
If you’re dealing with complex dents and creases, body filler may be the best option for fixing the damage. You’ll need to get a couple of supplies, including body filler, paint, wet-dry sandpaper and cutting compound polish. Since, body filler doesn’t stick to paint well, you’ll have to sand the work area down to the bare metal. No matter the severity of the damage, you must remove a minimum of three inches beyond the dent.
Mix the body filler before use and spread it on the damaged region using a rigid plastic spreader. After the filler hardens completely, start sanding until the dent is smoothen out. Finally, use a primer to protect the filler and finish off with paint.
If you’re not willing to go the DIY route, you can always seek the help of an auto repair expert.