Expert: William Forster - 10/20/2006

Question
Is there an easy way to repair the 3" crack on top of the plastic fender. This 92 Deville is otherwise in great shape. Replacing the fender would require matching 14 year old paint. Thank you!

Answer
The only way to repair it is to glue it back together from the inside with plastic repair compound, and fiberglass mat. The easiest way is probably to remove the fender. The inside must be sanded well with 80 grit, in a cross hatch pattern. It then needs wiped clean with a wet wash rag. Blow dry with clean, dry air. Support the crack on the face with some aluminum tape, it will help retain the cracked pieces in place. Apply repair compound to the panel, then saturate a piece of fiberglass mat with the repair compound. Have everything ready before hand, the fiberglass mat must be applied while the glue on the fender is still wet. Place the mat over the damaged area, and let set up for at least a day before trying to reassemble. The crack will still be visible from the outside, but this will help hide, and support the damaged area. There is no way to repair the outside without painting the panel. If you are worried about paint match, then let a pro handle this job, start to finish. plastic repair is difficult, and paint matching is best left to the pros. Expect to pay 350-500.00 for this work. Bill   FYI- aftermarket plastic fenders are JUUUUUNNNNNNKKKKK! fIND A USED GM FENDER IF THE BODY SHOP CAN'T FIX IT. Bill