Easy Solution For Dents, Scratches, and Dull Appearance of Automobile
Professional bodywork to repair any dents, scratches, or dullness on your car can be expensive. So, before you rush into a garage, try out these easy at-home solutions which can restore your car's dignity for very little money.
Problem: A Body Panel is Dented
Solution 1:
Restore it to its shape with a suction cup. A rounded, smooth dent can sometimes be repaired with a suction cup. Wet the edge of the suction cup, then press down on the center of the bump. Abruptly untie and the bump will come out (hopefully!).
Solution 2:
If the dent is on a flat panel, away from edges or creases, use a blow dryer and a canister of compressed air.
- Use masking tape to secure a square of aluminum foil over the dented area. This will protect the paint.
- Set a dryer to medium and use it to heat the dented metal for a minute or two. Turn off the dryer.
- Immediately take a can of compressed air (available at computer stores for dust control components) and hold it upside down so that the cold propellant is sprayed. Spray this on the sheet covering the bumpy area. The sudden and sudden change in temperature can cause the lump to pop out.
Problem: My Chrome Bumper has Lost Its Shine
Solution:
Check whether the surface to be cleaned is chrome steel or chrome plastic (a plastic substrate covered with a thin layer of chrome). Older cars may have chrome steel bumpers and exterior mirrors, while chrome plastic is often used for details on more modern cars. Apply a magnet to the bumper; if it sticks, the bumper is chrome steel, if not, it is probably plastic.
- Chrome steel may appear dull or have rust stains, but it can be restored by vigorously buffing it with a #0000-grade steel wool.
- Do not use steel wool on chrome plastic, rub it with a 2: 1 mixture of white vinegar and water, or use a compound specifically designed for chrome polishing.
Problem: My Headlights and Taillights are Dull
Solution:
Wipe them off completely with toothpaste.
Problem: My Alloys and Linings are Dull
Solution:
Washing the wheels weekly can prevent damage to alloy rims, which can crack due to the hot dust coming from your brake pads. However, if it is too late to avoid the problem, you can restore your alloys with one of the specialist compounds available at auto stores. The black plastic exterior trim around windows and doors can also be returned to its original finish with today's chemical treatments.
Problem: My Car has Deep Scratches
Solution:
Scratches and chips that get under the lacquer finish of the car cannot be removed by polishing. If you scratch the scratch with a fingernail and it sticks, you will need to purchase a touch-up kit from your store and follow the directions. For an exact match, find the code number for your paint, it is usually printed on the driver's door jamb or under the hood. Some auto stores can match a paint color; if you can, bring a removable part of the car (the gas cap, for example).
Saving money by fixing minor damage to your car yourself means more money for gas, so why not give these quick fixes a try!
