What to Do When the Front of the Car is Dented?
2 Answers
Utilizing the principle that plastic softens when heated, apply hot water to the dented area to push the dent out. You can also use some dent repair tools during the process to improve the efficiency of the repair. Additionally, after the dent is restored to its original shape, use cold water to cool the area, which helps with contraction and recovery. More relevant information is as follows: 1. Function of the Bumper: Cars are equipped with bumpers at their front and rear ends, which not only serve a decorative function but, more importantly, act as safety devices that absorb and mitigate external impacts, protecting the vehicle body and the safety of passengers. 2. Composition of the Bumper: The outer panel and cushioning material are made of plastic, with a U-shaped channel beam pressed from cold-rolled steel sheets approximately 1.5 mm thick; the outer panel and cushioning material are attached to the beam, which is connected to the frame's longitudinal beams with screws for easy removal. The plastic used for such bumpers mainly consists of two materials: polyester and polypropylene, formed using injection molding methods.
I'm used to driving in my car, and my first reaction when the front end gets dented is to calmly assess the damage: for small dents, I can save money by fixing them myself. For example, prepare a hot water kettle to pour hot water on the plastic parts, wait until they soften, and then use a large rubber suction cup to pull out the dent—apply even force and pull gently with patience, never rush or you might damage the paint. Also, check if the dent is near the edge or headlights, as these areas can easily affect the structural integrity—if so, stop immediately. For large dents, like those from hitting a wall with obvious deformation, don’t mess with them; just drive to a repair shop for professional equipment. During the process, watch out for paint cracks that could lead to rust and require touch-up protection. From my experience, small issues DIY can save hundreds, while major damage should be left to technicians to ensure safety and aesthetics. Regular front-end maintenance extends the car's lifespan.
