One of the most prominent signs that someone has been in a car accident is physical damage to the vehicle. Those that are mechanically inclined sometimes opt for the do-it-yourself quick fix of taking a panel from a junk car and replacing the damaged or missing parts. Quarter panels, hoods and fenders must be removed from another car or truck of the same make, year and model to ensure a close and usable fit. While it is less expensive, the biggest problem with this method of repair is that the donor car is rarely the same color. This unappealing, eye-catching problem can be remedied with a trip to the local car repair and auto painting center to complete the vehicle collision repair.

Incomplete Repair

While a donor vehicle repair is a quick fix, it is only part of the remedy. The car is safer and more functional to drive; however, the mismatched single or multiple panels on the vehicle are similar to wearing a neon sign that shouts to other drivers, "I’ve been in an accident." Since people tend to avoid vehicles that are a sign of trouble, this may lead to other problems. For example, this often results in other motorists making it difficult for that driver to merge into traffic. They may also be the target of false claims of hitting other vehicles. The damaged vehicle is also an embarrassment for the driver when friends, co-workers and family members are present in the parking lot or driveway, staring at it, shaking their heads or rolling their eyes. The best way to fix this problem is to have the vehicle or the panel repainted to match.

Dent

When a dent is banged out of the outer panel, it often mars the paint’s finish and creates chipping and peeling. Holes and other damage can be repaired with body putty.

Once this is sanded, the smooth surface is ready for paint. The auto can then be taken to an auto painting center where a professional can complete the repair with a matching paint job. This is difficult for a do-it-yourself repair, because color matching, weather conditions, clean environments and space are all difficult factors for individuals to overcome. A professional shop will have a premier paint booth with the ability to create the right hue with matte, metallic and gloss finishes to match.

Panel Painting

Once step one of repairing or replacing the panel is complete, step two is to have it painted by a professional auto painting center. A collision repair center that is up to date on technology is a good place to have the vehicle painted. The existing paint color can be matched almost exactly using a computerized color-matching system. The whole car or truck can be repainted or just one section, depending on the preferences of the vehicle’s owner.