Does a scratched car door need to be replaced with a new one?
2 Answers
If the car door is scratched without severe deformation, it does not need to be replaced. However, if there is structural deformation, a new car door should be replaced. The relevant explanations are as follows: 1. Introduction: If the car door is severely damaged, with cracks inside, metal bending at the corners, or damage to the reinforcement ribs and structural components, it is recommended to replace the car door. 2. Reason: When the car's anti-rust layer and anti-corrosion properties are compromised, the strength of the metal will also change. Over time, moisture inside the car door can cause internal rust to penetrate outward. Even if a thick layer of body filler is applied externally, rust will eventually appear. Once the internal metal rusts through, the body filler will fall off in chunks, or the paint will start to bubble with rust stains seeping out over time.
Actually, whether to replace a new car door due to scratches depends entirely on the extent of the damage. I've encountered this situation multiple times. Minor scratches or small dents don't require door replacement at all—just take it to a professional shop for metalwork and repainting. Spending a few hundred bucks can restore it to its original condition, and matching the new car's paint color is easy with great results. However, if the scratch is deep enough to deform the door's outer skin or damage the internal support structure, affecting the smooth operation and sealing of the door, then replacing the door should be considered to ensure long-term safety and aesthetics. Otherwise, issues like squeaks or air leaks might become persistent nuisances later on. For a new car, original parts are precious, so don't rush to replace them and waste money. It's wise to first get a comprehensive inspection at a 4S shop to assess whether the damage is deep or superficial, then decide accordingly. After all, modern repair techniques are highly advanced, and minor damages can be fixed to look as good as new.
