How to Check for Bondo on a Car

If you’re in the market for a used car or simply want to check if the car you own has been in an accident, checking for bondo is an important step. Bondo is a body filler that is used to repair dents, scratches, and other damages on a car’s body. While bondo can be a great way to repair minor damages, it can also be a sign that the car has been in a major accident. Here’s how you can check for bondo on a car:

Step 1: Look for Uneven Surfaces

The first thing you should do is to look for any uneven surfaces on the car’s body. Bondo is often used to fill in dents and scratches, and it can leave behind an uneven surface. Run your hand over the car’s body and feel for any bumps or rough spots. If you find any, there’s a chance that the car has been repaired with bondo.

Step 2: Check for Paint Overspray

Another way to check for bondo is to look for paint overspray. When bondo is used to repair a car’s body, it is often sanded down and painted over. However, if the repair work was not done properly, there may be paint overspray on other parts of the car. Look for areas where the paint does not match or appears to have been sprayed over other parts of the car.

Step 3: Use a Magnet

A simple way to check for bondo is to use a magnet. Bondo is made of a mixture of resin and fiberglass, which are not magnetic. If you suspect that the car has bondo, run a magnet over the body. If the magnet does not stick, there’s a chance that the area has been repaired with bondo.

Step 4: Look for Bondo Dust

If the car has been repaired with bondo, there may be dust or debris left behind. Look for any areas where there is dust or debris that cannot be easily wiped away. This may be a sign that bondo has been used to repair the area.

Step 5: Check for Bondo Lines

Finally, look for any visible bondo lines on the car’s body. Bondo is often used to fill in dents and scratches, but it can leave behind a visible line. Look closely at the car’s body and see if you can spot any areas where the paint appears to be raised or where there is a visible line.

Conclusion

Checking for bondo is an important step when buying a used car or checking the condition of the car you own. By following these steps, you can easily identify if the car has been repaired with bondo. If you do find bondo, it’s important to further inspect the car to see if there are any other damages or signs of an accident. Remember to always use caution when buying a used car and to thoroughly inspect the vehicle before making a purchase.