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How do I fix the side panel of my car?

My son has a used car that he bought himself and drives everywhere. It’s on the older side, and recently, the side panel trim has started to come up. I’d like to fix it myself to save him a trip to the body shop and save some cash. How can I fix the car’s side panel?

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Claire Beaney · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Fixing the side panel trim yourself is a great money-saving choice—and a super awesome favor for you to do for your son!
If the side panel trim is still hanging on, then it’s a relatively simple repair as long as you have the right materials. You’ll just need a heat gun, an adhesive like Windo-Weld, and tape. Here’s what you should do:
  • Move your heat gun back and forth over your side panel trim to make it flexible—it should end up sitting pretty close to your door.
  • Apply your adhesive in between the panel trim and body of your car, where the old adhesive once was.
  • Place some tape vertically along the side panel trim to keep it in place while it dries (which should take around 24 hours).
All these tools together should cost around $80, and getting this same repair done by a professional can cost upwards of $100.
Completing car repairs by yourself can save you a lot of money in the short and long term. If you want to save even more money when it comes to
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Hope this guide helped fix your car’s side panel!
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