How to Fix Oil Canning on Car Body
What is Oil Canning?
Oil canning is a condition where the metal panels of a car body become wavy or rippled. This can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- Stress from the car’s weight or from being involved in an accident
- Rust or corrosion
- Poorly fitted panels
How to Fix Oil Canning
Step 1: Determine the Cause of the Oil Canning
Before you can fix oil canning, you need to determine what caused it. This can be done by inspecting the affected area for signs of:
- Stress
- Rust or corrosion
- Poorly fitted panels
Step 2: Repair the Cause of the Oil Canning
Once you have determined the cause of the oil canning, you need to repair it. This may involve:
- Hammering out dents or dings
- Replacing rusted or corroded panels
- Realigning or refitting panels
Step 3: Apply Body Filler
Once the cause of the oil canning has been repaired, you need to apply body filler to the affected area. This will help to fill in any dents or ripples and create a smooth surface.
- Clean the affected area with a degreaser.
- Apply a thin layer of body filler to the affected area.
- Sand the body filler smooth once it has dried.
Step 4: Paint the Car
Once the body filler has been sanded smooth, you need to paint the car. This will help to protect the body from the elements and give it a finished look.
- Clean the car thoroughly.
- Apply a primer to the affected area.
- Paint the car with the desired color.
- Clear coat the car to protect the paint.
Tips for Preventing Oil Canning
There are a few things you can do to prevent oil canning from occurring in the future:
- Avoid driving over rough roads or potholes.
- Park your car in a covered area to protect it from the sun and rain.
- Get regular maintenance on your car to keep it in good condition.
Conclusion
Oil canning is a common problem that can affect any car. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can fix oil canning and restore your car to its original condition.
