When a dent appears in the body, many believe that only a professional workshop can restore the vehicle to the correct shape. However, with the right tools, patience, and a well-done process, it is possible to repair the damage and achieve a finish almost identical to the original. Here’s a practical and comprehensive method to restore a dent and leave the surface looking fresh from the dealership.

1. Preparing and removing damage

Initial assessment

Before starting, the damaged area is checked in detail. The video shows a dent located at the rear of the car, which makes it possible to determine if you can work directly on the panel or if it needs to be disassembled.

Panel removal or direct work

If the part is not welded, the affected panel is disassembled to work more comfortably. Otherwise, the dented area is intervened directly.

Roughing and deep cleaning

Using a grinder or sanding tool, paint, rust, and dirt are removed until the metal is completely exposed. This allows the repair to adhere better and no hidden imperfections remain.

Application of anti-corrosion

The exposed metal is covered with an anti-rust coating that prevents corrosion. To speed up drying, a hairdryer or heat gun can be used.

Final surface cleaning

Before applying the putty, the area is thoroughly degreased to ensure that the product adheres properly.

2. Filling and leveling with putty

Preparation of the mixture

The putty is combined with the hardener until a homogeneous mixture is obtained that can fill the gap firmly.

Application on the dent

The putty is spread over the damaged area, covering and leveling the surface. It is important to work quickly, as the product hardens in a few minutes.

Progressive sanding

Once dry, the surface is sanded using different grits of sandpaper (800, 1500 and 2000) to obtain an even and smooth finish. This step defines the quality of the final result.

New cleaning

The dust is removed to leave the surface ready for priming.

3. Primer and paint

Masking the area

Before painting, all areas that should not receive paint are covered with tape and paper.

Primer application

A base coat is sprayed over the repair. If small imperfections appear after this coat, they are corrected by applying a new layer of putty and repeating the necessary sanding.

Color Masking and Mixing

Once the surface is ready, the surrounding area is covered again. The paint is then prepared to exactly match the original colour of the vehicle.

Layers of color and varnish

Two coats of primer and three coats of color are applied, leaving about 15 minutes between each application. A ceramic varnish or coating is then mixed and applied in two additional coats to brighten and seal the repair.

4. Final finish

Review of the result

Once the varnish is dry, the surface shows a uniform shine and a texture equal to the rest of the car.

Removal of the masked man

All tape and protectors are carefully removed so as not to damage the freshly applied paint.

Repair completed

The area is completely restored, with no signs of the original dent and with a renewed finish.

Tips and recommendations

• Work in a ventilated place, as paints and solvents emit strong fumes.
• Always wear personal protection: gloves, safety glasses and a mask.
• Do not apply thick layers of caulk; It is best to do it in thin layers to avoid cracks.
• Check the paint color with a pre-test, especially if the car has been repainted before.
• If you don’t have experience spraying paint, practice on an old surface beforehand to control the jet and prevent dripping.

For a better understanding of this content we invite you to watch the following video from the Gaus DIY channel:

With good preparation, proper materials, and following each step calmly, it is possible to repair a dent and achieve a finish that looks professional. This method restores the vehicle to its original appearance without the need for expensive workshop work.

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