Can You Replace The Deer-Damaged Quarter Panel On Your Car?

All it takes to ruin your day is a deer running out in the road and smashing into the side of your car. Fortunately, if the deer hit the quarter panel of your car, you may be able to make the repairs on your own. Here, you'll learn what it takes to replace the quarter panel on your car.

What You'll Need

  • Replacement Quarter Panel
  • Lug Wrench and Ratchet Set
  • Jack and Jack Stand

Selecting and Preparing the Replacement Quarter Panel

You may be able to find a replacement quarter panel at your local salvage yard. You may even be able to find it in the same color as your car. If not, and you want the new panel to match your car, have the replacement painted before you install it on the car.

Remove the Damaged Panel

Engage the parking brake and jack up one side of the car. Place the jack stand underneath and remove the wheel on that side. Look around the edges of the panel for the bolts that are holding it in place. Begin removing the bolts.

If the bolts are rusted in place, spray them with a rust breaking product and let it sit for a bit to allow the product to work. Now, return and continue removing all of the bolts.

Put on a pair of thick work gloves and begin working the damaged panel off of the car. Gloves are especially important if the panel has begun to rust. It might take some effort to get the damaged panel to come off, but if you work at it, it will eventually come off. Set the damaged panel aside.

Install the Replacement Panel

Position the replacement and check to see if the holes line up. Once it's all lined up, screw a bolt in at the top, then the lowest point of one side, and then the other. Screw the remaining bolts into place and then, go through and tighten all of the bolts once more. If you leave the bolts loose, the panel could rattle and make annoying noises as you drive down the road.

Remove the jack stand, lower the car, and examine your work.

If this seems like a task that is outside of your skillset, contact your local auto body collision repair expert. They will assist you with getting your banged up car back on the road in no time.

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