DIY Repairs for Minor Car Dents and Scratches

It happens to everyone.  It is almost impossible to drive your car and not get a little scratch or dent here and there.  No matter how careful we are, it's just a reality we have to face. No matter how defensive we drive, it is unfortunate not everyone is careful.  Also, accidents do happen.

Good news is that for minor dents and scratches, there is something that you can do.  It can get expensive to take your car to professionals. Here are some home DIY repairs you can do yourself for minor dents and scratches.  

Fix dents with a mallet

If you have access to the backside of the dented area, a mallet is your best option  This is easier for areas like the hood of your car. If you're a bit handier with cars and tools, you can remove dents in doors.  You will need to remove the inside panel of your door to access the inside. Use a rubber mallet to make sure you do not create bigger damage.  Gently tap the backside of the dent back into place. If the dented area contains no scratches, then it should look good as new.

The plunger is not just for the toilet

This is for fairly large dents.  Plungers help you pull out dents without needing access to it's backside.  Secure the plunger on the dent and gently pull it out. You have the option to use a regular toilet plunger or use specialized car dent plungers.  These are available in your auto shops or hardware stores.

If there are scratches, what do you do?

There is more than 1 layer of paint on your car.  The top layer is clear and colorless. The inner layer is the colored paint.  If the scratch only reaches the top layer, then this can be fixed at home. If it is deeper than that, then you will need to repaint the area to remove the scratch.  Test it with your fingers. If it does not catch your fingernail when you run through it, then that's a good sign.

Clean the surface and use 2000-grit wet sandpaper over the surface.  Make sure the surface is wet when sanding. Finish it off with rubbing compound and it should erase that scratch.  Be sure not to sand deep as you do not want to go beyond the first layer.

For minor dents and scratches, you can easily fix it yourself.  How about for bigger damages? Protect your car by having the right coverage. At Insurance services of the West, LLC, we put our clients first by offering them policies that they can afford. Learn more about our products and services by calling our agency at (425) 681-0996. You can also request for a free quote by clicking here.