How to Fix a Small Dent in a Car

Even the best drivers in St Louis and Jefferson County can end up with the occasional dent or ding in their car. And though our service department is always happy to bring your car back to a brilliant shine, you can also learn how to fix a small dent in a car or a light scratch with simple tools around the house. Find out how to fix scratches on a car and remove dents with help from Suntrup Kia South, and learn more service tips in St. Louis.

Fix Scratches on Your Car 

When scratches extend deep into the metal surfaces of your car, it’s often easier to bring your car to a detailer around St Charles to get the problem dealt with professionally. But, learning how to fix scratches on a car that only extend into the clear coat is simple. Here are a few tips to help you fix scratches on your car:

• Candle Wax – Gently rub a candle over the surface of the scratch to create a temporary seal. While not a permanent solution, this will work well in a pinch.
• Super Glue – A little super glue can also form a tougher seal on a car scratch than candle wax. Once again, this is a temporary solution to be used in an emergency.
• Paint Polish or Rubbing Compound – Working a light polish and foam pad into the scratch can help buff away the damage. Start with the lightest polish first, moving up to more abrasive options as needed. Be careful not to overdo it.
• Wet Sandpaper – Wet sandpaper is another great solution that offers more long-term coverage. Clean the area, and rub 2000-grit wet sandpaper across the scratch. Once the scratch is nearly invisible, follow up with a rubbing compound and polish. Seal the area with a wax or paint sealant, and finish up with a good wash and wax.
• Touch-Up Paint – For deeper scratches, pick up touch-up paint at our parts department. We can find an exact match for your finish.

How to Fix a Small Dent in Your Car

The process to fix a dent in a car is just as easy as fixing those scratches. However, you’ll need to find a tool to help pull the dent out. This can be something as common as a plunger or hammer or something more specialized like a dent-pulling tool. Find out how to fix a small dent in a car with the tool of your choice:

• Plunger – You can fix a dent in a car with a car dent plunger or just the plunger from you bathroom. Just place the plunger on the dented area to pop the dent out gently.
• Hammer or Mallet – A common hammer or mallet can also help maneuver the dent back in place. Work from the opposite side of the dent to knock the spot back into place. Whether you use the hammer for a small dent or a mallet for a larger one, protect the side you are hammering with a towel or something soft.
• Dent Puller – For more advanced car-care experts, a dent puller involves drilling a hole in the dent and lacing a wire through to pull the dent out. Follow up by filling the hole, sanding it down, and painting it.

Trust Suntrup Kia South for Your Car Care

Whether you want to pick up touch-up paint at our parts department or get a full detailing service at our service center, the team at Suntrup Kia South is here for all of your automotive needs. Contact us with your questions, or schedule your service in St. Louis today!