How to Repair Car Fenders

If a fender on your car has been damaged, the amount of work to repair it will depend on the damage. The exact tools needed to repair a fender dent, like the size of the hammer or if you need a hammer at all, will depend on how large the dent is. This will also determine if you need to remove the fender from the car to work on it. If the dent is small, however, it will actually help to keep the fender on.

Instructions

Removing the Fender

1

Raise the car's end with the damaged fender with the jack. Supporting that end of the car with jack stands will provide better support.

2

Open the hood/trunk and the door for that side of the car and remove the wheel. Locate all the fasteners for the fender.

3

Disconnect the splash shield in the fender well. Their fasteners can require a screwdriver, Torx wrench or allen wrench, depending on the model.

4

Disconnect any parts connected to the fender, like the support rod for the hood. Support the hood with a large, sturdy stick before you do this.

5

Remove al the fasteners for the fender. These fasteners can be located along the outer edge of the engine/trunk compartment, within the door frame and in the wheel well. They can require a normal wrench to a Torx/Allen wrench.

6

Lift the fender off the car body. You may need two people to support it properly and avoid scratching any other part of the car.

Repairing Dents

7

Pull on the dent using a large suction cup with a handle to pull the dent outward--do this while the fender is still connected to the car. Start at the outer edges of the dent and gradually work your way inward.

8

Pound the dent with a hammer using small taps instead of long ones. Aim for the center of the dent to avoid protrusions, and support the other side with a dolly if you are using a heavy hammer.

9

Bend any bent fender supports back into place using vice-grip pilers.

10

Connect the fender back onto the car--if you removed it--once you have repaired the dent.