Honestly, I think the 'never use body filler on a quarter panel' rule is wrong

Tbh, I had a 2012 Civic come in with a deep dent right on the body line. Everyone says to cut and weld a new piece, but the customer's budget was tight, about $800 max. I decided to try something different. I used a minimal amount of filler over my metal work, feathered it out perfectly, and blocked it for what felt like forever. That was two years ago, and the customer just came back for an oil change. The repair still looks perfect, no cracks or bubbles. Has anyone else had a good result going against that old rule with the right prep?

3 comments

3 Comments

keith_bennett22d ago

Had a rust spot on a Tacoma bed a few years back, same deal with a tight budget. Hammered and dollied it as close as possible, then skimmed it with filler after a ton of prep. The key was using way less filler than people think you need and spending three days blocking it smooth. That truck still rolls by the shop and the repair is holding strong. Sometimes the old rules just need a careful hand and enough time to do it right.

kevin97422d ago

Three days just blocking? You're insane.

kaigibson22d ago

Yeah, three days blocking sounds about right for a finish that lasts. My first try at something like that, I probably spent three days just sanding the filler off again because I glopped it on like cake icing. Kevin974 might call that insane too, but I call it paying the stupid tax. You're totally right, a thin skim and taking your time is the only way it stays put.