Viral TikTok car plunger hack could cause ‘irreparable damage’
TikTok can be a lifesaver when it comes to finding hacks and shortcuts to get menial tasks done and solve minor day-to-day issues.
For example, rubbing a potato or an onion on your windscreen really does keep your car windscreen ice free in the morning.
However, experts at leading UK automotive group Swansway Motor Group have urged drivers to avoid a viral TikTok trend involving a plunger.
In the videos circulating the social media site, a plunger is used to seamlessly remove car dents.
But in reality, this could actually be causing more damage to the car rather than fixing the problem.
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@savvylikegeorgia Let’s take a dent out of a rental car with boiling water and a plunger #GRWM #DIY #DentRemoval #RentalCar ♬ Really from Da Hood – Plies
Trained technicians at Swansway Motor Group said: “Using a plunger to try and pop out car dents may seem like a quick and cost-effective solution, but this approach can often do more harm than good.
“Car surfaces are designed to be sturdy and resilient, and attempting DIY dent removal with a plunger can lead to unintended consequences.”
One of those “unintended consequences” could be damaging the paint and structure of the car: “The force exerted by the plunger can result in paint chipping and even cracking, leading to additional repair costs.
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“Car dents often require specialised tools and expertise to fix correctly.
Professionals have the necessary training and equipment to assess the damage, ensure that the structural integrity of the vehicle remains intact, and restore its appearance without causing more problems.”
Whilst a plunger might seem like a quick and cost-effective method of removing dents, the experts at Swansway Motor Group have warned that it actually won’t save you money. “The reality is that it’s a gamble,” they warned.
“You may end up causing irreparable damage to your vehicle, which will undoubtedly result in higher repair costs down the road. It’s far more cost-effective to seek professional advice from a reputable auto body shop.”
Adding to the technician’s comments, Swansway Motor Group Accident Repair Centre Manager Mark Trevers said: “In the long run, the ‘quick fix’ of using a plunger can turn into a costly mistake.
“It’s essential to prioritise the safety and integrity of your car by entrusting dent removal to experts who can address the issue correctly, ensuring the long-term value and functionality of your vehicle.”
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