Fixing small rock chips is a straightforward DIY task that can prevent rust and maintain your car's value. The essential steps involve a thorough cleaning, applying a primer for bare metal, carefully filling the chip with matched touch-up paint, and sealing it with a clear coat. For chips larger than a quarter-inch or deep enough to expose bare metal, a more involved process is recommended to avoid permanent damage.
The key to an invisible repair is meticulous preparation. Start by washing and drying the area completely. Use a detailing clay bar to remove any embedded contaminants, then gently clean the chip with isopropyl alcohol. If you see silvery bare metal, a few drops of primer are crucial to prevent rust. Applying the touch-up paint requires patience; use the tip of a toothpick or a fine applicator to dab tiny amounts of paint into the chip, building it up layer by layer until it's slightly higher than the surrounding paint. After letting the paint cure for at least 24 hours, apply the clear coat in the same methodical way to blend the repair and provide UV protection. Finally, after a full cure time (check the product instructions), wet-sand the area with 2000-grit sandpaper and polish it to restore the gloss.
| Chip Size | Recommended Method | Estimated DIY Time | Approximate Cost | Professional Repair Cost |
|---|
| Pinhead / Small | Touch-Up Paint Pen | 30-60 minutes | $15 - $40 | $50 - $150 |
| 1/4 inch | Multi-Step Kit (Primer, Paint, Clear) | 60-90 minutes | $25 - $60 | $150 - $300 |
| Larger than 1/4 inch | Professional Repair | 2-3 hours | N/A | $300 - $600+ |
| Multiple Chips | Paint Protection Film (PPF) | Professional Installation | $500 - $2,000 | $500 - $2,000 |
The most common mistake is applying too much paint at once, which causes unsightly drips. If the final result isn't perfect, a professional detailer can often wet-sand and polish it to a near-flawless finish. For cars with frequent highway driving, investing in a paint protection film (PPF) on the front bumper and hood is the most effective long-term solution.
