DIY car panel repairs can be a great way to save money on restoring your vehicle’s body from small accident damage, deterioration from normal use, or simply time. There are many repairs that you can do yourself, and you don’t need to be a qualified panel beater. To achieve professional results, all you need is the right tools and materials and a little bit of know-how.
If you’re planning to fix your car’s damaged body yourself, here are the 8 steps to follow:
1. Assess the Damage
Examine the damage to determine its severity. If the damage is too extensive or beyond your capability, consider seeking professional help.
2. Gather Necessary Tools and Materials
You may need various tools such as a body repair kit, suction cup, body filler, sandpapers, a paint sprayer, and a polisher. You’ll also need materials like primer, paint, and clear coat. Importantly, always wear safety glasses, a safety mask and protective clothing when working on your vehicle. And take all precautions when working with toxic or corrosive chemicals.
Before starting the project, it is a good idea to seek expert advice from the helpful staff at your Motospray dealer on what you will need to complete the job to save multiple visits. And they will help you to match the existing paint colour on your vehicle.
3. Prepare the Surface
Before applying any repair material, the surface should be clean and free from rust, debris, and old paint. Sand off the rust and rough surfaces, and always finish with Motospray Prepwash to ensure a clean surface for maximum adhesion. Any remaining rust pitting should be treated with Motospray Rust Converter prior to any further repairs. Remember, the better prep, the better the end result so take your time and don’t spare the attention to detail.
4. Apply Body Filler
Following the manufacturer’s instructions, use Motospray Lightweight Body Filler to repair any dents and imperfections. Apply and re-apply the filler with an applicator to follow the contour required. Sand and shape it using a variety of Sandpaper Grits (from Coarse to Fine) until it’s smooth and even, and matches the vehicle’s panel shape.
5. Prime the Surface
Mask off any areas not requiring repair and apply the appropriate Motospray primer on the repaired area to ensure that the paint adheres. Sand the primed surface prior to paint with a fine grit sandpaper (600-800 Grit) to ensure adhesion.
6. Paint the Area
Clean the surface with Motospray Prepwash and wipe the area to remove any remaining dust contaminants using a Motospray Tack Cloth. Apply the paint, ensuring that it matches the rest of the car. To achieve professional results, always apply multiple coats lightly, allowing for the drying time as recommended by the paint manufacturing and the ambient temperature.
7. Apply Clear Coat
Apply the clear coat layer in medium wet coats to protect the base colour and provide additional UV protection.
8. Buffing
Follow the specific paint manufacturers’ recommendation when the surface will be ready for Buffing. Otherwise, allowing 7 days should ensure that the surface is ready to Buff to a high gloss finish.
If you’re looking to restore your vehicle or give it a new look and to save some money in the process, there’s no better way than by following these steps. However, keep in mind that professional help may be necessary for significant damage.
If you are not sure of the process or what products you need to complete the job, we recommend you chat with your friendly Motospray dealer. They are ready to answer all your questions and help you in choosing the materials and equipment required to achieve a professional result.