HOW TO EFFECTIVELY ADDRESS AND RESTORATION PAINT CHIPS ON YOUR CAR
When your car gets hit by rocks, hail, or other debris on the road, it often results in those unsightly paint chips. These chips aren't just a cosmetic issue, they can escalate into bigger problems. If neglected, they cover the way for rust to take hold, which can cause serious harm to your car's bodywork. What's more, a vehicle with extensive paint damage tends to lose its resale value.
But fear not, there are methods available for you to tackle those paint chips on your own, potentially saving you from further damage and maintaining your car's worth.
Continue reading to enhance the look and durability of your car by inspecting paint chips, cleaning and evening out the affected area, applying primer if needed, touching up the damaged surface with paint, and lastly, polishing and waxing to preserve your vehicle's appearance for an extended period.
The following steps are used to repair paint chips on a car's surface.
Assessing Paint Chips
1. Determine Chip Size:
- Small chips: These are smaller than a dime.
- Medium chips: They're about the size of a quarter.
- Large chips: These are bigger than a quarter.
2. See if the chip is causing the paint around it to spread or flake off.
3. Examine if there's any rust underneath the paint.
4. While you can handle paint chips on your own, it's best to seek professional help if:
- Rust is present.
- There are deep scratches.
- Significant flaking occurs, especially for large chips.
Professionals can ensure your vehicle's integrity isn't compromised by rust and provide a seamless repair, even for large, rusted, and flaking chips.
Prepare the Surface: Cleaning the Paint Chip Area
Once you've assessed the size and severity of the paint chips on your car, it's time to give the area a detailed clean. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth, long lasting paint job and preventing any dust or dirt from affecting the final appearance and color of the paint.
- Clean the Area
To get rid of any loose dirt or debris, start by giving the impacted region a full rinse with water.
- Wash with Soap and Water
Use warm, soapy water to gently wash the paint chip area and the surrounding regions where debris might have landed. This helps to eliminate any stubborn dirt or grime that could interfere with the painting process.
- Ensure Dryness
Once you've cleaned the area, make sure it's completely dry before proceeding further. This ensures that the paint adheres properly and avoids any water related issues during the painting process.
Smoothing Out Raised Edges
When your car's paint chips, the edges around the damaged area can become raised, making it tricky to achieve a smooth touch-up paint job. Moreover, there might be residues like wax, grease, or coatings on the surface, hindering proper paint adhesion.
- Remove Debris
Use your hands or tweezers to pick up and remove any loose debris, including flaking paint. For smaller particles, canned air can be handy in clearing them away.
- Clean with Rubbing Alcohol
Wipe the area with rubbing alcohol to get rid of grease and oil, ensuring better bonding for primer or paint.
- Smooth Out Rough Edge
In some cases, gently sanding the area can help smooth out any remaining rough edges. However, be cautious as it's easy to accidentally scratch the paint and cause more damage. Consider using sanding pens or fine-grit sandpapers designed to minimize harm to surrounding paint.
- Deal with Rust
If there's rust, it's essential to remove as much of it as possible. For small to medium-sized rust spots, rust remover and a cotton swab can be effective. After treatment, clean any residual rust remover with isopropyl alcohol. Removing large amounts of rust may be challenging and might require professional assistance.
Applying Primer (If Required)
For medium to large paint chips that expose the metal body of your vehicle, applying primer beforehand is necessary. You can find automotive primers with applicator brushes at various stores for easy coating.
- Coat the entire exposed area with a thin layer of primer. It's crucial to apply just enough primer for proper paint adhesion without overdoing it. Immediately wipe away any excess, drips, or streaks.
- Take care not to get primer on the surrounding paint, as it can create imperfections in the new paint job. Apply the primer slowly and methodically to ensure a thin, even coat that stays within the paint chip boundaries.
Use the Paint
Before diving into the paint application process for repairing paint chips, it's crucial to ensure you choose the correct color. Mismatched paint can stand out and ruin the overall appearance of your vehicle.
- Finding the Right Color
If the original paint color is not available, you may need to locate and match the color as closely as possible. Choosing for premium paint is recommended for better durability and protection against future damage.
- Applying the Paint
For minor scratches and chips, a touch-up paint pen works well. Simply fill in the chip until the new paint is slightly above the surface of the existing paint, allowing for shrinkage during drying.
For larger chips, use a small brush to apply paint gradually from the center of the chip towards the edges. Apply a small amount of paint at a time and take your time to ensure even coverage. Multiple coats may be necessary, with each layer allowed to dry thoroughly before applying the next.
After the paint has dried, assess if the chipped area is close to even. If needed, use wet sandpaper with a grit of 1000 or 2000 to carefully smooth out the paint and ensure it covers the metal body beneath.
Applying Clear Coat on Surface
Once the final layer of paint has completely dried, it's time to add a clear coat lacquer. This not only protects the paint but also gives your vehicle a glossy finish, ensuring that the repaired area blends seamlessly with the rest of the paintwork.
- Apply the clear coat sealant in a similar manner to paint, using a small brush to spread a thin layer over the new paint. The clear coat dries quickly, but you may need to apply a second layer for optimal protection and shine.
- If there's still a visible boundary between the new paint and the rest of the vehicle, don't worry; this will be addressed in the next step. Focus on achieving an even application of the clear coat, ensuring it's smooth and completely dry before moving on to the next stage.
Polishing, Buffing, and waxing the Repaired Area
This step ensures that the car chip paint repair is seamless and looks fantastic. By polishing and buffing the new paint, you can match it with the surrounding paint, which might be older and possibly faded.
- Polishing Process:
Use a polishing compound along with a microfiber cloth or polishing pad. Apply gentle pressure and work in small circular motions, extending slightly beyond the new paint onto the old paint to ensure a smooth transition.
- Applying Wax:
Use a microfiber cloth and follow the instructions provided with the chosen wax product. Apply the wax evenly, moving and dabbing slowly and patiently to ensure a lasting, even wax coat. Once the wax has dried to a haze, use a cloth to buff the entire exterior of the vehicle, enhancing its shine and protection.
Tips for Protecting Your Car from Paint Chips
Paint chips not only mar the appearance of your vehicle but can also lead to rust and further damage if left unaddressed. It's essential to repair them promptly to maintain your car's aesthetics and structural integrity. Clean the affected area, smooth out any rough edges, apply primer, identify the correct paint colors, and carefully apply paint, followed by a clear coat, buffing, and waxing. This comprehensive approach ensures a seamless repair that lasts for years.
