How to Fix a Dent in a Car

No one likes discovering dents or scratches on their cars. The good news is there are simple things you can try to repair the damage yourself. Besides addressing large dents, we’ll talk about how to fix a small dent in a car, as well as how to fix scratches on a car. Of course, if you need any assistance, our collision and body shop in Fredonia is happy to help.

How to Fix Scratches on a Car

Fixing a scratch may not take much effort depending on the severity of it. Some of our Jamestown customers have been able to repair scratches with very little effort. Try these methods:

How to Fix Scratches on a Car

• Use sandpaper – Sand until the scratch is nearly invisible, then apply a rubbing compound.
• Use candle wax – Clean the area, then rub candle wax into the scratch as a temporary solution.
• Use superglue – This is a temporary solution like the wax method above. 

How to Fix a Small Dent in a Car

Fixing dents require a little more effort and some elbow grease, even when they are small. Here are some methods other Westfield drivers have successfully used to repair small dents on their vehicles:

How to Fix a Small Dent in a Car

• Use a plunger to pop the dent out – Use a household plunger or one made to pop dents.
• Use a hammer – You’ll want to use the hammer on the backside of the fender to bang the dent out. Use a towel to protect the fender.

How to Fix a Dent in a Car When the Dent is Big

Fixing a big dent requires some advanced methods and is not for the faint of heart. Most drivers choose to schedule an appointment with us to handle larger dents. But you can try these methods if you are certain you want to try doing this yourself:

How to Fix a Dent in a Car

• Use a dent puller – This is an advanced method that you should use only if you’ve been shown how to use this equipment. Drill a hole in the dent, lace a wire through, and pull the dent back. Fill the hole, sand it down, and paint.
• Use a mallet – This involves removing the fender or bumper and knocking the dent out from the inside. Use a towel to protect the fender or bumper from being damaged by the mallet.

Let Basil Chevrolet Inc. Help

Did you know that we are part of the GM Collision Repair Network? That means our specially trained collision repair specialist will use genuine OEM parts, as good as the originals, to get your car back to looking like it did when it rolled off the showroom floor. And, if you enjoyed this guide, you may want to check out our guides on how to remove the smoke smell from a car and how to rotate tires. We’re just down the road from Dunkirk. So drop by or contact us today!