How to Repair Cracked Car Paint?
2 Answers
Methods for repairing cracked car paint: 1. Use a compound to wipe along the crack lines until the cracks disappear, then repeat with a fine compound and apply wax; 2. For very deep cracks, use a coating paint that matches the car body color for repair, applying multiple layers while ensuring the paint thickness matches the surrounding area. Daily maintenance tips for car paint: 1. Rinse promptly after rain: Rain spots on the car body will gradually shrink, increasing the concentration of acidic substances in the rainwater. If not rinsed with clean water promptly, the paint will be damaged over time; 2. When washing the car: Wait until the engine cools down, avoid washing under direct sunlight or high temperatures to prevent detergent from drying and leaving marks, and avoid using highly alkaline detergents like laundry powder, soap, or dishwashing liquid to prevent stripping the paint's protective oils and accelerating aging.
I've also experienced cracked car paint before when I accidentally scratched the hood while parking. Small cracks can be easily and cheaply repaired yourself. I simply cleaned the cracked area with car wash soap, let it dry, then gently sanded it smooth with 800-grit sandpaper. Next, I bought a touch-up pen matching the original factory color and carefully applied it, adding a second coat after the first dried to ensure full coverage. Finally, I applied a clear coat for oxidation protection and polished it - the repair was nearly invisible. The tools cost just tens of yuan, saving hundreds compared to professional shops. However, DIY isn't worth it for long cracks where color matching is difficult and the repair may peel off. Regular waxing after washing helps protect the paint, and parking in shade during strong UV exposure helps too. Don't forget to check the crack's origin - if it's from impact exposing metal, quick repair is needed to prevent rust. Overall, this DIY method is practical, beginner-friendly and time-saving.
