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How do I repaint a car door?
I was in an accident that all but ruined my front passenger-side door. I have a $1,000 deductible, so filing a claim isn’t an option as the estimate was $1,100. My friend said I could get a door from a salvage yard and repaint it for a few hundred bucks. How can I paint a salvage car door?
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Sorry to hear about your accident! The good news is that you’re OK! As far as your car door, your friend’s advice is spot-on. A door may only cost you $50 to $100, and all you need to do is repaint it. To repaint the door, you’ll need to sand it, prime it, and paint it with a matching color.
To locate the door, follow these steps:
- Find out your exact make and model using the VIN (vehicle identification number).
- Call local salvage yards to see if they have your make and model.
- Be prepared to pick the part yourself, so bring a toolset and a friend.
Once you have the car door, repaint it by following these steps:
- Wash and clean the door, then wipe it dry.
- Use 40-grit sandpaper to remove any rust or original paint.
- Patch any rust damage using automotive filler by following the instructions on the package.
- Use masking tape to cordon off the window, trim, and door handle.
- Put cardboard or a tarp on the ground and lay the car door on top.
- Apply two or three coats of primer to the door.
- Sand down any imperfections with 400- or 600-grit sandpaper.
- Use your car’s paint code located inside the left door jamb or owner’s model to purchase matching paint.
- Apply three or four coats of paint.
- Remove the tape once the paint dries for about an hour.
- Let the paint dry for an additional 23 hours.
In the future, consider
lowering your deductible
to $500 or $0 so you won’t have to worry about doing the work yourself.If you haven’t compared car insurance prices in a while, now is the time to check out the Jerry app. As a licensed broker,
Jerry
can help you find and compare quotes from over 50 top providers, including Nationwide, Allstate, and Travelers, in minutes. When you find a better rate, Jerry can help you buy your new coverage and even cancel your old policy!View full answer
- Gregory R.
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