Expert: Gary - 2/17/2008

Question
I took my car into a local body shop ASE and reccommended by the insurance
company of the woman who hit my car.  They fixed a dented panel and
repainted it-I took it in on Tuesday and go it back on Friday.  The van smelled
quite strong for the first couple days.  It is getting better, but this is my first
experience with body shops.  Is it common for the car to smell of paint-I
know the whole shop did.  I haul my kids and groceries etc. and I have been
craking the windows despite 19 degree temps.....Is this safe..the smell I
mean?  How can I get rid of it?

Answer
Hi Catherine,

The smell should subside after just a couple of days. I would do exactly as you are by airing out the car. The problem is the vehicle is taking much longer to dry due to the cold climate. If you have a garage where you can keep the vehicle above say 60 degrees for a day or two that should give the paint enough time to finish curing and the smell should subside much quicker. I hope this helps.

Gary