How to Repair Corroded Paint?
2 Answers
For light corrosion scratches, you can gently apply toothpaste to the affected area and then wipe it with a soft cotton cloth in a counterclockwise direction. If the corrosion scratches are too deep, it is recommended to go to a 4S shop for repair or purchase a touch-up paint pen from an automotive supplies store. Do not attempt to fix it yourself, as this may deepen the scratches.
I find that the most common causes of paint corrosion are surface oxidation from acid rain or bird droppings. For minor corrosion, I first thoroughly wash and dry the affected area with a neutral cleaner to prevent water penetration from causing more severe rust. Then, I use a polishing compound to gently sand away the surface rust and old paint, being careful not to sand too deeply and damage the primer. After that, I polish to restore the shine and finally apply wax for protection to prevent recurrence. The entire process takes about one to two hours and is suitable for DIY, with tools readily available at auto parts stores—affordable and convenient. Regular preventive measures like parking in shaded or covered areas and periodic sealant application can help avoid corrosion. Of course, if the corrosion is severe and exposes bare metal, professional repainting is necessary. In short, early treatment is key; delaying will only worsen the corrosion and double the repair costs.
