Attempting To Remove A Small Dent From Your Vehicle's Fender On Your Own
If a cart at hit your vehicle while it was parked in a store parking lot, and you noticed a slight dent in the fender as a result, you will most likely want to have the damaged portion repaired promptly. A dent in a fender can be fixed at an auto body repair shop, such as High Point Body & Paint, or be fixed on your own, without the need to contact your insurance company so you aren't stuck paying a deductible. Here are a few ways you can remove a dent from your vehicle's fender on your own.
Try Using Temperature Change So The Metal Bounces Back Into Place
If the dent is small in size, without several bends in the metal, it may be able to be repaired with aid from heat and ice. First, cover the dent with a piece of aluminum foil. Tape it in place with painter's tape. Next, heat the foil with a hair dryer on a medium to high temperature setting for several minutes. While the foil is still hot, slip on a pair of insulated gloves and grab a piece of dry ice to rub over its surface. The drastic change in temperature is known to help remove dents rather easily. You will hear a popping sound as the metal bounces back to its original location if this method works.
Give A Plunger A Try To Pull The Dent Out Of The Metal
If heat and ice did not work at removing the dent from the cart's impact, you may want to try using a plunger to remove it. Head to your local auto supply store to see if they sell small plungers made especially for this reason. In a pinch you can give your household toilet plunger a try as well. Center the rubber flange over the dent and push against the metal of your vehicle's body so it provides a tight seal. Try pulling the handle of the plunger toward you in an attempt to pull the metal back into place.
Use An Auto Body Filling Agent To Fill In The Concave Portion
If the dent remains after trying the above methods, try filling it in with an auto body filling agent. This can be purchased from an auto supply store. This type of filling agent requires that you mix the conditioner with the filler using a small plastic utensil. It will start hardening rather quickly, so you will need to act fast in applying it to the dent. Use a putty knife to apply to the affect area and let the filler harden in its entirety. Afterward, use sandpaper to remove any protruding portions of filler. The area will need to be repainted with an auto paint pen after this process.