How to Remove Car Dents
Repairing car dents at home is a practical skill that can save you both time and money.
To carry out the repair yourself however, you will need to know the correct approach, have the right tools, and you will require patience.
If you are unsure about this, then you are best to speak with a professional bodyworker - they will be able to advice on the best course of action. Do not carry out the repair yourself if you do not have the right tools or experience.
Items You Will Need
• A dent repair kit. Or a plunger (for larger dents)
• A hair dryer or heat gun
• A microfibre cloth
• Some rubbing alcohol
• A pair of protective gloves (recommended for handling heat sources)
Step 1
The first step is to properly clean the area that has been dented. The best way to do this is with a microfibre cloth that you have dampened with some rubbing alcohol. This step is required as it will remove any surface contaminants.
Step 2
Next you will need to apply some heat to expand the metal. This makes it flexible and easier to work with. You can do this with either a hair dryer or a heat gun. Make sure that you keep the heat source at a safe distance. Around 6 inches from the car's surface. This is to avoid damaging the paint. Make sure to evenly heat the area for around 3-5 minutes. This improves the malleability of the metal, for a smooth repair.
Step 3
For those using a dent repair kit, adhere to the manufacturer's instructions for the best outcome. These kits often include a suction tool designed to pull the dent out without damaging the surrounding area.
A plunger can be effective for larger dents. Moisten both the plunger and the dent with water to enhance suction. Firmly press the plunger against the dent and use a push-pull motion until the dent pops back into place. This method is widely recommended for its simplicity and effectiveness in handling straightforward dents.
Step 4
Inspect the area after applying pressure. If the dent has improved but is still visible, repeat the heating and pulling process. Persistence is key, as some dents may require multiple attempts to fully rectify.
Step 5
Once the dent is removed, you may notice minor imperfections. Applying a small amount of car wax can polish the area and provide a protective layer to the paint. This step not only enhances the car's appearance but also seals the surface against environmental elements.
Tips and Considerations
• Patience and Precision: Repeat the process as needed, taking care not to rush, which could lead to further damage.
• Professional Consultation: For deep, sharp dents, or if the paint has been compromised, it's advisable to seek professional assistance. Incorrect handling can exacerbate the problem, leading to costly repairs.
• Safety First: Always prioritize safety by wearing protective gloves when dealing with heat and chemicals.
Removing Car Dents
It's essential to approach car dent repair with a thorough understanding of the process. And an awareness of when professional help is required.
For the most severe cases, professional body shops employ techniques such as paintless dent repair (PDR), which might be beyond the scope of DIY repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions: Car Dent Removal
Can I remove a car dent by myself?Yes, it is possible for a person to remove a car dent. However, you’ll need to make sure that the damage is not too big or extensive. A general rule of thumb is that shallow dents that are no bigger than 3 inches in diameter are possible to fix yourself. If a dent is bigger or deeper than this, you may find it hard to fix. In this case you are better taking the car to a bodywork specialist who will be able to carry out the repair for you.
No, not all dents can be pulled out. It is possible to pull out a dent on minor issues. It’s also important that the paint is not damaged. If the dent is too big, then you will more than likely need the help of a professional.
Most rounded dents can be removed. However, if the dent is a ‘sharp dent’ then this is not easy to remove and requires specialist work. In extreme cases it may be that the panel or section of the car actually requires swapping out. Sharp dents tend to be tighter and occur mostly along the car’s body lines.
The time it takes to repair a dent will depend on the severity of the dent. It can take as little as an hour up to several hours – in the case of a deep and sharp edged dent.
