How to Fix Fender Paint & Alignment on Your C8 Corvette

How to Fix Fenders Issues

This guide addresses potential fender issues with your 2020 Chevrolet Corvette. Fenders can be subject to a variety of problems, from minor cosmetic issues like paint damage to more serious alignment concerns. Addressing these promptly can save you money and maintain the value of your vehicle. As one owner shared, "I sent the tube to @Louis @ LGR and he has a fixture he put it in and welded the fitting, then drilled a hole and painted it. Came out really nice and it was like $60 or so."

Symptoms

Owners haven't specifically described fender-related symptoms as isolated issues in the provided data. However, based on related activities and repairs, potential symptoms might include:

• Visible paint damage: Scratches, chips, or fading paint on the fenders can detract from the vehicle's appearance and potentially lead to rust. Keep in mind that matching the paint is essential for an invisible repair job.

• Misalignment: While not directly stated, references to leveling the car and adjusting suspension imply that misalignment issues could affect fender positioning or clearances. Misalignment can cause unusual tire wear and handling problems.

• Clearance Issues: Implied in the quotes, fender-to-tire clearance issues could present themselves after suspension work is performed, or larger tires are installed. This could result in rubbing when turning or going over bumps.

• Rust: While not directly mentioned, any damage to paint can leave metal exposed and cause rust. It’s crucial to address paint damage promptly to prevent rust formation.

Most Likely Cause

Based on the available data, the most likely cause for issues addressed by owners is paint damage. While mechanical issues weren't directly related to the fender specifically, the activity of leveling and working on the suspension can cause accidental paint damage. The quotes show that owners have repaired the paint when it was damaged.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing fender issues can involve a visual inspection and, in some cases, more detailed measurements. Here's a step-by-step process:

1. Visual Inspection: Thoroughly examine the fenders for any signs of damage, such as scratches, chips, dents, or rust. Pay close attention to areas prone to impact, like the edges and lower sections of the fenders.

2. Alignment Check: If you suspect misalignment, visually assess the fender's position relative to the doors, hood, and tires. Look for uneven gaps or areas where the fender appears to be too close or too far from adjacent panels.

3. Clearance Assessment: Check the clearance between the fenders and the tires, especially when the wheels are turned. Ensure that there is adequate space to prevent rubbing or contact during normal driving conditions.

4. Rust Inspection: Inspect the fenders for any signs of rust, particularly in areas where the paint is damaged or missing. Look for surface rust, bubbling paint, or more advanced corrosion that may require more extensive repairs.

5. Seek Professional Opinion: If you are unsure about the extent of the damage or the proper course of action, consult a qualified body shop or mechanic for a professional assessment.

Tools needed:

• Bright light: For detailed visual inspection.
• Measuring tape: For assessing clearances and alignment.

Step-by-Step Fix

The specific steps for fixing fender issues depend on the type and severity of the damage. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Minor Paint Damage (Scratches/Chips):

   • Clean the affected area thoroughly with soap and water.
   • Apply touch-up paint that matches the vehicle's color code.
   • Allow the paint to dry completely.
   • Apply clear coat (if necessary) to protect the paint and blend the repair.

2. Deeper Scratches/Dents:

   • Clean the area and sand down any rough edges.
   • Apply body filler to level the surface.
   • Sand the filler smooth and prime the area.
   • Paint and clear coat to match the surrounding area.

3. Rust Repair:

   • Remove any loose rust with a wire brush or sandpaper.
   • Apply a rust converter to neutralize the remaining rust.
   • Fill any holes or damaged areas with body filler.
   • Sand, prime, and paint the repaired area.

4. Fender Realignment (If Necessary):

   • Loosen the fender mounting bolts.
   • Adjust the fender's position to achieve proper alignment.
   • Tighten the bolts securely.

5. Professional Painting:

   • Consider using a professional painter for best results. As one owner shared: "I sent the tube to @Louis @ LGR and he has a fixture he put it in and welded the fitting, then drilled a hole and painted it. Came out really nice and it was like $60 or so." (source)

Parts and Tools Needed

• Touch-up paint: Matching your vehicle's color code.
• Sandpaper: Various grits for surface preparation.
• Body filler: For repairing dents and rust damage.
• Primer: To prepare the surface for painting.
• Clear coat: To protect the paint and enhance gloss.
• Wire brush: For removing rust.
• Rust converter: To neutralize rust.
• Socket set: For removing and installing fender bolts.
• Masking tape: For protecting surrounding areas during painting.
• Sandpaper: For preparing the surface
• Cleaning supplies: Soap, water and wax

Real Owner Costs

Based on the owner quote, a specific paint repair cost was $60.

• DIY: Touch-up paint can cost $20-$50. Body filler and other materials may add another $50-$100.
• Professional: A professional paint repair can range from $100 to $500 or more, depending on the extent of the damage. As one owner shared: "I sent the tube to @Louis @ LGR and he has a fixture he put it in and welded the fitting, then drilled a hole and painted it. Came out really nice and it was like $60 or so." (source)

Prevention

Preventing fender issues involves taking proactive measures to protect your vehicle's body:

• Regular Cleaning: Wash your vehicle regularly to remove dirt, salt, and other contaminants that can damage the paint.
• Waxing: Apply wax periodically to protect the paint and enhance its shine.
• Parking Carefully: Park in areas where your vehicle is less likely to be hit or scratched.
• Touch-Up Paint: Promptly repair any minor paint damage to prevent rust from forming.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use only approved cleaning products on your vehicle's paint.
• Consider Paint Protection Film (PPF): This clear film can protect your fenders from scratches, chips, and other damage.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from CHEVROLET owners:

Owner Experiences

"So way back when I thought that I was going to start assembling the body I was trying to level the car on my lift. I had bought a lift, rebuilt it, and installed and leveled it." — mccarley (source)

"Drove it 50miles home in 100degree Texas heat in stop and go traffic. I was little nervous as the temp was creeping up to 210-212 then holding with the A/C blasting, but once quickly dropped to 180 on the highway." — Corey_68 (source)

"But it was discussed on the "What did you do to your C3 today " thread for over 6 months. I ended up completely rebuilding absolutely everything under the car." — 4-vettes (source)

Lessons Learned

⚠️ "Still have to remove headers mid pipe and tunnel plate to work with the torque tube at the bell housing. I have rear mounted ABS so it makes things a little easier but you do have to lower the cradle down all the way off the frame bolts to clear the oil pan and balancer in order to get the engine off the input shaft in the torque tube." — Mr. Black (source)

Real Repair Costs

"I sent the tube to @Louis @ LGR and he has a fixture he put it in and welded the fitting, then drilled a hole and painted it. Came out really nice and it was like $60 or so." — vette4fl (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix minor paint damage on a fender?

A: A small scratch or chip can often be repaired in an hour or two using touch-up paint. More extensive damage may require several hours or even days to repair properly.

Q: Can I drive with a misaligned fender?

A: Driving with a severely misaligned fender can cause tire wear and handling problems. It's best to have it repaired as soon as possible.

Q: Is paint damage a common issue on the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette?

A: Paint damage is not unique to any specific model and depends on environmental factors, driving conditions, and owner care.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended for fender repairs?

A: Minor paint damage can often be repaired DIY. However, more extensive damage or realignment issues are best left to a qualified body shop or mechanic. As one owner shared, he had an expert do the work: "I sent the tube to @Louis @ LGR and he has a fixture he put it in and welded the fitting, then drilled a hole and painted it. Came out really nice and it was like $60 or so." (source)