Auto body repair products help restore the look and function of your vehicle’s surfaces, whether you're fixing dents, patching fiberglass or repairing interior materials. These products are useful for DIYers, car enthusiasts and anyone looking to maintain or improve their vehicle’s appearance. With the right auto tools and materials, you can handle many common repairs at home.
Common Auto Body Repair Products
Ace Hardware offers a variety of auto body repair kits and materials to suit different surfaces and damage types. These products are designed for ease of use and reliable results.
- Auto body filler: Used to fill dents, dings and surface imperfections on metal panels. Often paired with a liquid hardener for a smooth, sandable finish.
- Liquid hardeners: Mixed with body filler to speed up curing and improve durability. Essential for shaping and sanding repairs.
- Fiberglass repair kits: Ideal for patching cracks or holes in fiberglass surfaces like bumpers, panels or marine parts. These kits typically include resin, hardener and cloth.
- Vinyl repair kits: Designed to fix small tears, burns or holes in vinyl upholstery. Useful for seats, dashboards and trim.
- Leather repair kits: Help restore minor damage to leather surfaces, including scratches, cracks and fading. Often include color-matching compounds and applicators.
- Defogger repair kits: Restore broken rear window defogger lines using conductive paint or adhesive for clear visibility in cold or damp weather.
Explore brands like Bondo, Permatex and 3M for dependable results on every project.
What Are the Benefits of Auto Body Repair Kits?
Auto body repair kits offer a simple and cost-effective way to fix common vehicle damage at home. They’re designed for convenience, often including all the materials and tools needed to complete the job without professional help. Whether you're repairing a dent, patching fiberglass or restoring interior surfaces, these kits make the process more accessible.
Key benefits include:
- Cost savings: Avoid expensive shop repairs by handling minor fixes yourself.
- Beginner friendly: Kits include clear instructions and easy-to-use tools for first-time users.
- Professional finish: Sandable and paintable for a smooth, seamless result.
- Durability: Repairs hold up to daily wear, weather and regular use.
Can You Use Auto Body Filler on Plastic?
Most standard auto body fillers are designed for metal but some are compatible with rigid plastics. Always check the product label for surface compatibility. For flexible plastic parts, look for a filler specifically made for plastic repair.
How Long Does It Take for Body Filler to Cure?
Body filler cure time depends on the filler and the amount of hardener used. Most fillers begin to harden within 5 to 10 minutes and are ready to sand in about 20 to 30 minutes. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Do You Need Special Tools for Fiberglass Repair?
Most fiberglass repair kits include the basic auto tools you need, such as resin, cloth and mixing sticks. For larger repairs, you may need a sander or cutting tool. Always wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when handling resin and hardener.
Shop Auto Body Repair Products Near You at Ace Hardware
Ace Hardware carries a wide selection of auto body repair products near you to help you tackle repairs with confidence. Visit your local Ace or shop online for fast delivery to your door. You can also find automotive hoses, gasket compounds, siphons and pumps and more. Whether you're fixing a dent or restoring your interior, Ace has the tools and materials to help you get it done.
