Can Rearview Mirrors Be Repainted?
2 Answers
Rearview mirrors can be repainted. Carefully inspect the damaged area; if the damage exceeds one-third of the component, an over-repair method should be used for restoration. Waxing: Waxing is divided into direct waxing and polishing waxing. Direct waxing involves cleaning the car body and applying wax directly to the clear coat on the surface of the paint. Polishing waxing, on the other hand, requires using a polishing machine to polish the paint surface before applying wax. This method can instantly make the car look shiny. Glazing: Due to the composition of the glaze, it is not resistant to acid and alkali cleaning and can be easily damaged. It typically lasts only 1-3 months, and glazing can harm the car paint, requiring reapplication every two to three months. Crystal Coating: Crystal coating is a hard protective layer specifically designed for the care of key areas such as the car's paint surface, seats, interior and exterior trim, glass, and tires. It comes in quick-drying and slow-drying types, mainly determined by the primary ingredients. Film Application: Car coating is a highly protective measure that can brighten the paint surface while also providing multiple effects such as resistance to acids and alkalis, high temperature resistance, strong waterproofing, oxidation resistance, and UV protection.
Last time when I parked in the neighborhood, my car's rearview mirror got scratched by a neighbor's car and lost some paint, which was quite annoying. I decided to try fixing the paint myself first, so I went to an auto parts store and bought a spray can kit in the matching color for about sixty yuan. After getting home, I cleaned the scratched area, lightly sanded it smooth with fine sandpaper, and applied two coats of paint, letting it dry thoroughly. The color matched pretty well, but upon closer inspection, there were some slightly lighter spots. Fortunately, it doesn’t affect driving, though some moisture might seep through after rain. The rearview mirror is always exposed, and the paint layer is thin and prone to peeling. I suggest that if the scratch isn’t too big, fixing it yourself saves money and is quick. For serious damage, it’s better to spend around a hundred yuan at a repair shop for professional painting, which can last two to three years without fading. The key is to check regularly to prevent rust or dirt from affecting visibility.
