By Dixie
Any parent of teenagers knows when your teen gets behind the wheel, there are bound to be heart-stopping incidents. And let’s be honest, we’ve all cringed at the sight of their less-than-perfect parking job or heard them accidentally scrape against the mailbox while attempting to back out. But don’t panic—we’ve created this handy guide to help you repair those inevitable fender benders and mailbox mishaps. So sit back, relax, and maybe pour yourself a glass of wine; after all, it’s better to laugh than cry when it comes to teenage driving disasters!
Fender Benders
One of the most common teenage driving mishaps is a fender bender. Whether it’s a small dent or a larger crack, these accidents can be stressful to deal with. However, with some basic tools and knowledge, you can often fix these minor damages yourself.
Firstly, assess the damage by carefully inspecting the affected area. If there are any sharp edges or protrusions, use a file to smooth them out before beginning the repair process. Next, gather your supplies. You will need a body filler compound, sandpaper (in various grits), a putty knife, and touch-up paint that matches your car’s color.
Once you have all the necessary materials, begin by cleaning the damaged area thoroughly with soap and water. Allow it to dry completely before proceeding. After allowing the filler to dry for the recommended time, use sandpaper of increasing grits (starting with a lower number and ending with a higher number) to sand down the filler until it’s flush with the car’s surface. Allow it to dry completely before adding additional layers if needed.
Mailbox Mishaps
Another common teenage driving mishap is accidentally hitting a mailbox while attempting to park or back out. This can result in anything from a small scratch to a completely knocked over mailbox.
If the damage is minor, such as scratching or denting of the mailbox, you can often use a DIY repair kit specifically designed for metal surfaces. These kits usually include sandpaper, filler compound, and paint that can easily be applied to fix small damages. For more extensive damages, you may need to replace the entire mailbox. In this case, make sure to measure the dimensions of your existing mailbox and purchase a replacement that is the same size.
To install the new mailbox, start by removing the damaged one and clearing away any debris or broken pieces. Then, follow the instructions provided with your new mailbox to properly install it in its place.
Garage Door Damage
Sometimes teenage driving mishaps can extend beyond just fenders and mailboxes. It’s not uncommon for a teen driver to accidentally hit the garage door or other obstacles while attempting to park or back out of a tight space. For these types of accidents, it’s best to consult a professional repair service; click here for more info about finding the best professional repair team. Trying to fix major damages yourself can be dangerous and may result in further damage or injury.
Busted Tires
Another common issue caused by teenage driving is flat or damaged tires. Whether it’s from hitting a curb, running over debris on the road, or simply wear and tear, these types of mishaps can happen frequently.
In case of a flat tire, make sure that your teen driver knows how to properly change a tire using the spare in their car. It’s also a good idea to regularly check and maintain tire pressure to avoid any unexpected blowouts or decreased performance. If the tire is severely damaged, it may need to be replaced. In this case, it’s best to take the car to a mechanic or tire shop for proper replacement and alignment.
Scuffs, Scratches, and More
Aside from the more common accidents mentioned above, there are many other potential mishaps that can occur while a teen is behind the wheel. From scuffs and scratches on the car’s exterior to spills and stains on the interior, these incidents can be frustrating but fixable.
For minor scratches and scuffs, you can often use touch-up paint or scratch remover products to restore the car’s appearance. For more difficult stains or spills, it may be helpful to take the car to a professional detailing service that specializes in removing tough stains and odors.
Preventing Future Mishaps
While accidents happen, there are steps you can take to help prevent future teenage driving mishaps. Make sure your teen is properly trained and licensed before allowing them to drive on their own. Encourage them to practice in a safe area before venturing onto busy roads.
Remind your teen about the importance of being vigilant while driving and following traffic laws. Distractions, such as texting or playing loud music, can significantly increase the likelihood of accidents. Consider setting rules and consequences for your teen’s driving behavior. This can include limiting the number of passengers they are allowed to have in the car or not allowing them to drive at night until they gain more experience.
Teenage driving mishaps are a common occurrence, but with some basic tools, knowledge, and preventative measures, you can easily repair any damages yourself. However, for more extensive or dangerous accidents, it’s best to seek professional help. Remember to stay calm and have a sense of humor when dealing with these situations—after all, it’s all part of the learning experience for both you and your teen driver.
Drive safely!