It might be a little intimidating to attempt any type of home auto body repair, but fixing small dents is an easy way to learn.
Before tackling this project, keep in mind a few pointers. If the dent is on the bumper you want to be careful in the drilling stage so that you do not pop the tire. Not only is it frustrating to have another project come up in the middle of one you are working on, it could be harmful to you. If the dent is a large one (larger than a hard-backed book), you might want to just replace the panel that the dent is on. It would be easier and cheaper.
If you don't have some of the equipment that is mentioned in the article, you can buy or rent it from an auto parts or hardware store.
- Drill. Take a regular drill, and in the center of the dent make a small hole. Remember that when the dent is on a bumper, or anywhere near a tire, be careful that you don't pop the tire.
- Pull. Take a dent pulling tool and carefully insert it into the hole. Gently pull outward until the dent pops or appears flat. Remove the pulling tool.
- Rubber mallet. Reach behind the dent with a rubber mallet and gently knock the dented area until it is smooth. It might be necessary to crawl under the vehicle. Use a mechanic's dolly or a child's skate board to help you get under there easier.
- Fill. Fill the hole with a body filler compound (like Bondo) and allow it to dry. Then take some sandpaper and smooth it out so it is level and flush with the rest of the car.
- Paint. Finally, take some touch-up paint that matches your paint job, and re-paint the area you just worked on. It might take a few coats, but once you are done your car should look as good as new.
Author Bio
Lee Wyatt
Contributor of numerous Tips.Net articles, Lee Wyatt is quickly becoming a regular "Jack of all trades." He is currently an independent contractor specializing in writing and editing. Contact him today for all of your writing and editing needs! Click here to contact. Learn more about Lee...
Repairing a Broken Step
Over time, just about everything in the home will break down or need to be repaired in some way. This can also include ...
Discover More
Winter Bedding
While using the proper bedding can be an important task all year round for the gardener, it is doubly important when ...
Discover More
Fixing Cracked Windows
While we would all like to think that our cars and trucks are invulnerable, the sad truth is that they are actually ...
Discover More
Caring for your Car's Finish
Caring for your car's finish can actually improve the overall life of the vehicle, while saving you some money at the ...
Discover More
Flying Car Hoods
Quick! You are driving down the road when the hood of your car just flew open and smacked your windshield. What do you do?
Discover More
Fixing Small Paint Dings
There are virtually an unlimited number of options for fixing small paint dings. All it takes is a little creativity, ...
Discover More
Comments