1. Identify the Problem:
* Precise Location: Where exactly is the rubbing occurring? Top, bottom, front, or back edge of the fender? This helps pinpoint the cause.
* Extent of Rubbing: Is it just a slight rub, or significant contact? A minor rub might be solvable with minor adjustments, but significant rubbing likely points to a larger issue.
* Recent Work: Has any recent body work, suspension work, or collision repair been done? This could be the root cause.
2. Possible Causes & Solutions:
* Bent Fender: The fender itself might be bent. This is common after an accident or even a strong impact (like hitting a curb). You'll likely need to carefully straighten the fender using a body hammer and dolly (requires experience and skill). Severe bends might require professional body work.
* Misaligned Fender: The fender might be slightly out of position relative to the body. This could be due to loose or damaged mounting points (bolts, welds). Check all fender-to-body bolts for tightness. Loose or damaged bolts need to be replaced and properly tightened. If the fender is significantly misaligned, it might require careful manipulation to get it back into its correct position.
* Suspension Issues: Problems with your suspension (worn bushings, damaged components) can alter the car's geometry, causing the fender to rub. Inspect your suspension components for wear and tear. Replace any damaged parts. This is more likely if the rubbing is at the front edge of the fender.
* Body Damage: Underlying damage to the car's body structure (e.g., from a collision) might have subtly altered the alignment, leading to fender rubbing. This would require more extensive bodywork.
3. Tools You Might Need:
* Socket wrench set
* Wrenches (various sizes)
* Body hammer
* Dolly
* Fender alignment tools (optional, but helpful)
* Jack stands
* Jack
4. Adjustment Process (for minor misalignment):
* Safety First: Secure the car on jack stands before working underneath.
* Visual Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the fender-to-body connection for loose bolts, damaged areas, or any signs of misalignment.
* Bolt Tightening: Tighten all bolts connecting the fender to the body.
* Gentle Adjustment (If Necessary): If the rubbing is minor and you're confident, you *might* be able to very carefully nudge the fender into place with gentle leverage. This is risky and requires a good understanding of bodywork. Use wood blocks to prevent scratching the paint.
5. When to Seek Professional Help:
If the rubbing is significant, if you're unsure about any step, or if the problem persists after checking the bolts and suspension, it's best to take your Camaro to a professional body shop. They have the expertise and tools to properly diagnose and fix the issue, preventing further damage. Improper adjustments can lead to more problems down the road.
