Back-To-Basics: Repair Considerations For A Damaged Hood

Sometimes going back-to-basics can make the difference between a quality repair and a failed repair. When it comes to repairing the hood, hood striker, and hood hinges, here are a few things to keep in mind.

The hood must retain the proper shape for the life of the repair. Before repairing a hood, consider:

  • Part design
  • Construction material (high-strength steel, composite, aluminum)
  • Severity of the damage
  • Condition of the finish
  • Durability of the repair
  • Accessibility for straightening and corrosion protection
  • How replacement parts are supplied

Also remember that hoods typically have crush zones, or collapse zones, on the underside of the panel. This allows them to fold during a collision and prevents hood intrusion into the passenger compartment. In most situations, any damage to collapse zones requires the hood to be replaced.

Some hood strikers are serviced separately and can be replaced if damaged. However, if there is damage to the hood hinge or hood striker areas, the hood must be replaced because these areas can affect the performance and safety features of the vehicle. If the striker or the striker mounting area fails, there is a possibility that the hood could inadvertently open. If the hinge mounting area is repaired, it could affect pedestrian protection that is built into those areas.

All these hood repair considerations can help ensure a complete, safe, and quality repair.


Related I-CAR Courses