Car ownership has its ups and downs, but when you know what your vehicle needs, upkeep becomes a lot easier. That’s why Panorama Collision of East Rochester, NY, likes to educate their clients on little-known aspects of auto repair. One of the most helpful restoration tools, Bondo®, is foreign to the average driver, but by considering the following information, you can get on the same page as the collision repair experts.

What Is Bondo?

“Bondo” started off as a brand name, but over time, it’s become a generic term for auto body filler. In a nutshell, it’s an adhesive paste used to even out dents and fill in nicks on a car’s surface. Once it hardens, it can be painted over. Bondo is most commonly used on older vehicles, as the panels are harder to replace and must be repaired instead.  

How Does It Work?

There are several different types of body filler, but the standard variety includes fiberglass resin and talc. The fiberglass provides the adhesive power while the talc lends the paste a smooth finish. When applying Bondo, it’s critical not to use too little or too much. Collision repair technicians must undergo a considerable amount of training to know the exact amount that will fill in the crevice without looking swollen or bumpy.

For the mixture to harden, a catalyst must be applied. In most cases, the toxic chemical MEK peroxide is used, and technicians must wear respirators to prevent inhalation. Once applied, the Bondo hardens in a matter of minutes. Collision repair technicians can paint over the repair once it cures, leaving your dinged-up car looking brand-new.

If your vehicle could benefit from a bit of Bondo, contact the experts at Panorama Collision today. This family-owned and -operated company offers free courtesy cars, so you’ll never be without a ride while yours is in the shop. For additional information about their services, visit the website. You can also call (585) 381-8667 to learn more about collision repair.