Top 6 Best Car Repair Fails
Repairs are an inevitable part of car ownership, but most people know where to draw the line between DIY projects and professional work. When that line gets fuzzy, you can run into some serious car repair fails. While these solutions are undoubtedly creative, they're also fraught with problems. In many cases, these repairs will have shorter lifespans than what it took to complete them.
Plywood Replacement
Image via Flickr by Alfred Crabtree
Cars are made of steel and aluminum for a reason. These durable materials have the life span and safety elements you want and need in an automobile. If you don't recall seeing much plywood and cardboard in a car lot, it's for a good reason. While this haphazard cosmetic fix might preserve your vehicle's shape, it won't protect you if in the event of an accident and will leave you with a soggy or rotting mess after a hard rain.
Riveted Doors
Image via Flickr by voxluna
This riveting job seems to cover the major problems, but with no real door and only a piece of metal to cover the opening, there's no way to enter or exit the vehicle. The time and effort alone that were involved in this inefficient approach make it a fail. It would have been more worthwhile simply to find a new door at the scrap yard.
Colored Duct Tape
Image via Flickr by dave_7
In place of a paint job, you can always use colored duct tape to cover cosmetic damage. While this is a clever option at first glance, a second look will reveal its flaws. When you remove the tape, your car's paint will be in worse condition than before, assuming there's anything left to touch up. This particular repair fail also obscures the taillight. The red duct tape probably won't impress the cop who pulls you over for unsafe brake lights, tail lights, or turn signals.
Heat-Treated Stretched Metal
Image via Flickr by Jurgen
Heat-treating a car can help you stretch damaged metal after an accident. While this is a legitimate approach to minor auto repairs, it's usually used for only a few inches of material. You can run into a host of safety issues when you heat-treat an entire car.
Saran Wrap Window
Image via Flickr by Justin
The plastic-wrapped window is a classic fix that's actually efficient for short-term repairs. It's the perfect way to keep bugs out and air conditioning in when you're on a serious budget. Unfortunately, you might run into trouble when you need to get a clear view out of the window for safe driving. It's also a welcome flag for anyone hoping to steal items from your car.
Truck Bed For a Car Seat
Image via Flickr by TRF_Mr_Hyde
No back seat? No problem! Just hack off the back of your pickup truck and mount a car seat to the cobbled-together remains. This fix gets a well-rounded fail for practicality, usability, and safety. However, it's a win for turning heads and garnering a few laughs.
While an oddball car repair might look fun, it's rarely safe or efficient. Steer clear of these fails when you need a repair job of your own.
