Bondo Auto Body Filler is a two-part putty compound that can be used to repair dents, dings, holes, rusted areas and scratches in vehicle exteriors. Bondo Body Filler cures fast, shapes in minutes and is formulated to be a non-shrinking and permanently durable material. In addition to its uses on vehicle exteriors and other metal surfaces it is also a suitable repair option for wood, fiberglass and concrete.

DIY repair for multiple surface materials
View larger.

How It Works

Bondo Auto Body Filler consists of two compounds: a resin based filler and a hardening agent. A tube of the hardening agent is included with the container of Bondo Auto Body Filler. The consistency of both compounds is creamy, but as the hardening agent is blended together with the filler it acts as a catalyst, creating a chemical reaction which thickens the new mixture into a paste. Bondo Auto Body Filler products include directions containing simple mix ratios that make for convenient measuring out of both compounds without any waste.

The compounds should be blended away from the area to be repaired on a handheld mixing palette or other maneuverable flat surface using a flat edged spreading tool (palette, spreading tool and recommended eye protection, mask and solvent resistant gloves sold separately). The result is a rapidly thickening adhesive mixture that can be spread on and will stick to correctly prepared surfaces and spaces. The mixture cures quickly, shapes in minutes and will accept as many reasonably applied applications as required to fill holes and deep scratches or dents. It is is formulated to be a non-shrinking and permanently durable material. Once completely hardened Bondo Auto Body Filler can be sanded using various grits to achieve as smooth a finish as required. The filled, area as well as the area immediately surrounding it should be covered with Bondo Glazing and Spot Putty (sold separately). Feather sanding this creates a consistent sloping surface that can then be painted with standard gray auto primer and an outer coat and clear coat finish. In addition to its uses in repairs of typical vehicle surfaces Bondo Auto Body Filler is also suitable for repairs of other surfaces including wood, steel, aluminum, fiberglass, and concrete.

Instructions*

1. Clean the vehicle with soap and water, followed by a solvent cleaner. Adhesive Remover from 3M is a great product for this step. This is important as any contaminants (wax, bug residue, tar, dirt) remaining when sanding begins are ground into the surface as they could compromise the adhesion of repair materials.
2. When repairing any dent it is best to remove as much of the dent as possible prior to filling with body filler. An assortment of slide hammers, hammers, dollies and picks may be needed to perform this step. Always use appropriate eye and respiratory protection.
3. After the dent is roughly removed it is time to start sanding. Use a sanding block or random orbital sander with 80 grit abrasive to remove all paint to approximately 2" around the dent.
4. Using proper techniques mix Bondo Body Filler from 3M and apply to the dent in thin layers. The first layer should be applied with firm pressure to ensure good adhesion. Avoid over-application of filler as this just requires additional sanding. Let dry for 15 to 20 minutes, dependent on temperature and humidity.
5. Select a sanding block that is appropriate for the size of the repair and attach a 80 grit abrasive sheet. Rough shape/sand the repair area. Always keep your block flat to the surface. Avoid over-sanding with 80 grit or the finished repair area will be low. If low spots are detected, it may be necessary to apply more body filler and repeat this sanding step.
6. Once satisfied with the rough shape of the repair, attach an 180 grit abrasive sheet to the sanding block and final shape the repair. After this step, the repair should be level and there should be no 80 grit scratches remaining. The body filler should also have a smooth featheredge all around the repair.
7. Attach a 180 grit abrasive to the sanding block to featheredge the paint away from the body filler and remove all straight line scratches.
8. Mix Bondo Professional Glazing and Spot Putty from 3M and apply to the entire repair area overlapping the body filler and paint featheredge. Allow 15 minutes to dry, depending on the temperature and humidity.
9. Apply a 180 grit abrasive to the sanding block and sand the repair area until level. Remember to keep the block flat to the surface at all times and do not over sand.
10. Apply a 320 abrasive grit to your sanding block and remove all straight line scratches from the paint around the filler area. Once complete the repair is ready for the application of primer surfacer and topcoats. It's very important to follow the paint manufacturer's instructions for your specific brand of primer or paint.

Key Features

• Original formula for fast easy repair and restoration of your vehicle
• Ideal for repairing dents, dings, holes, large rusted areas and scratches
• Lightweight and sands easily
• Formulated to be a non-shrinking, non-reactive and permanently durable material
• Includes cream hardener
• Can also be used for repairs to wood, aluminum, concrete and fiberglass surfaces

Limitation of Liability

Each Bondo product is sold subject to the limitation that 3M will not be liable for any loss or damage arising from use of the product whether direct, indirect or special, incidental or consequential, regardless of the legal theory asserted, including warranty, contract, negligence or strict liability.

What's in the Box

• Quart container of Bondo Auto Body Filler
• .75 oz. tube of Bondo Cream Hardener

About Bondo and 3M

In 2007 the Bondo Corporation was acquired by 3M. 3M is proud to continue its tradition as one of the leading manufacturers and marketers of specialty repair and restoration products for the automotive, industrial, marine and home DIY markets. 3M's product offerings in these areas have been extended with products that are known worldwide under the brand names of Bondo, Bondo Home Solutions, Marson, Dynatron, Mar-Hyde, Bondo Marine and Laminex.

* Read all directions and warnings for safe and proper application.