[Infographic] From Fender-Bender to Faultless: The Anatomy of an Auto Body Repair Job
One of the hard realities of life is that, sooner or later, cars get a little damaged. Dents, bumps, and scratches can accumulate over the years to make a Jaguar look more like a junker. Even a minor accident can cause damage that may not be easy to see right away, but professionals with quality auto body training can make cars look as good as new again.
Auto body repair may seem complicated on the surface, with many different techniques involved in the process, but graduates of auto body schools are prepared with the knowledge and experience they need to fix whatever comes a car’s way.
Want to find out a little more about fixing up a car after a fender-bender? Check out our infographic to learn more!
From Fender-Bender to Faultless: The Anatomy of an Auto Body Repair Job
What are the Types of Auto Body Repair?
When a car arrives for repairs, there are several areas it may need work in:
- Frame Repair
- Paintless Dent Removal
- Body Panel Replacement
- Ding and Scratch Repair
Frame Repair Step by Step
- Secure the vehicle with anchor pots
- Make sure you’re using the right pulling force direction
- Pull the metal to relieve the gathered damage
- Use a frame straightener for minor repairs
What to Know about Paintless Dent Removal (PDR)
- PDR repairs dents without adding new paint
- Tools manipulate metal back into place
- Can be used for minor dents or dings
- Requires patience, and can take up to two hours
- Works best on car models built after 1990
Tips for Replacing a Body Panel
- Try to repair before you replace
- Remove all visible rust or damage
- Make sure the replacement panel fits
- Space your welds a few inches apart
How to Fix a Bent or Dented Fender
- Straighten out the fender
- Sand down to the metal
- Coat the area with a body filler
- Sand again after the filler has set
- Apply a fresh coat of paint
Did you know? Canada has over 24.9 million licensed drivers.