What to Do When Your Car Has a Small Dent?
3 Answers
Here are specific solutions for car dents: 1. Paintless Dent Repair: If the original car paint is not damaged, you can use paintless dent repair technology to fix the dent without repainting. 2. 4S Store Repair: If the dent area is relatively large, it is recommended that the owner go to a 4S store for repair to avoid causing secondary damage to the car. 3. Hot Water Repair: If the dent on the car surface is relatively small, you can use hot water for repair. Some car models use softer materials. When heating the dented area with hot water, the material will soften, and you can use an adsorption tool to pull it outward directly, allowing the dent to recover automatically.
Small dents on cars are quite common, and I've dealt with them myself a few times. You can try a DIY method first—pour hot water over the dent (especially on plastic parts), wait a few seconds, then quickly pull it out with a suction cup. Many small shops sell these tools. Avoid forcing metal parts to prevent paint chipping. It's simple and cost-effective, but results vary; if it doesn’t work, it’s better to visit a professional shop—they use heat guns to restore it like new. Usually, avoid parking in tight spaces to minimize dings, and drive carefully to prevent dents. Keeping the car clean also prevents rust. Handling such minor issues yourself can save hundreds.
For small dents, as a seasoned driver, I suggest not rushing to fix it yourself—contacting a repair shop is the safest bet. They use paintless dent repair (PDR) technology to fix small dents in just minutes, with costs ranging from 100 to 500 depending on the location and material. DIY attempts might damage more areas, like scratching the paint or affecting internal wiring. During regular maintenance, ask the mechanic to check the car body and address any dents promptly. Leave some space when driving or parking to prevent collisions—it saves money and effort while keeping the car looking good. Small dents may seem minor, but early repairs prevent long-term water accumulation and rust. Always choose reputable shops; avoid cheap roadside stalls for quality assurance.
