How to Detect Body Filler on a Car

Body filler is a type of automotive repair material that is used to fill in dents, scratches, and other imperfections. It is a versatile material that can be sanded and painted to match the color and texture of the surrounding surface. However, body filler can also be used to hide more serious damage, such as rust or structural damage.

If you are considering buying a used car, it is important to be able to detect body filler. This can help you to avoid buying a car that has been damaged and repaired without being properly disclosed.

Methods to Detect Body Filler

Visual Inspection: Look for any areas where the paint color or texture does not match the surrounding surface. This could be a sign that body filler has been used to repair a dent or scratch.
Magnet Test: Magnets will not stick to metal that has been filled with body filler. If you place a magnet on the car and it does not stick, this could be a sign that the area has been repaired with body filler.
Sound Test: Tap on the car with your knuckles. Areas that have been filled with body filler will sound hollow.
Thickness Gauge: A thickness gauge can be used to measure the thickness of the paint and body filler on a car. If the thickness gauge reading is significantly higher in one area than in the surrounding areas, this could be a sign that body filler has been used.

Tips for Detecting Body Filler

Inspect the car in good lighting. This will help you to see any imperfections in the paint or bodywork.
Use a flashlight to look for any areas where the paint color or texture does not match the surrounding surface. This will help you to identify areas that may have been repaired with body filler.
Place a magnet on different areas of the car. If the magnet does not stick to an area, this could be a sign that the area has been repaired with body filler.
Tap on the car with your knuckles. Areas that have been filled with body filler will sound hollow.
Use a thickness gauge to measure the thickness of the paint and body filler on the car. If the thickness gauge reading is significantly higher in one area than in the surrounding areas, this could be a sign that body filler has been used.

Conclusion

Detecting body filler on a car is not always easy, but it is important to be able to do so if you are considering buying a used car. By following the tips in this article, you can increase your chances of finding any areas that have been repaired with body filler.