How to Fix a Small Paint Chip on a Car?
2 Answers
Minor paint scratches on the surface layer of the topcoat can be completely repaired by waxing. Use a compound to treat the area, wiping in straight lines, then apply wax. Start with coarse wax followed by fine wax to remove all the fine scratches. Gently apply the product to the shallow scratches and then wipe with a soft cotton cloth counterclockwise. This not only reduces the scratches but also prevents air from corroding the damaged paint area.
Last time a small branch scratched off a coin-sized patch of paint from my car door. First, I cleaned the damaged area with a damp cloth and let it dry before applying touch-up paint with a paint pen. Remember to shake the touch-up pen well before use and apply it lightly in multiple thin layers—don’t be greedy, as thick application can lead to clumping and unevenness. After applying, wait half a day for it to cure, then polish it smooth with rubbing compound. If the scratch reaches the primer and exposes bare metal, apply rust-preventive primer first. This kind of small-area touch-up will only look about 70-80% like the original—for perfection, professional repainting is needed. A reminder: Don’t park too close to greenery; branches are invisible paint killers. Also, check for paint bubbles during car washes—they’re a sign of rust forming.
