Is a Small Paint Chip from Door Impact Serious?
2 Answers
When noticing paint chips from door impacts, first inspect the damage to determine its extent and any rust formation. For minor fresh scratches, the primer provides rust protection, but if bare metal is exposed, prompt treatment (such as using a touch-up pen) is necessary to isolate the metal from air contact, preventing oxidation, rusting, and accelerated aging of the vehicle body. For larger damages, professional repainting is required. For minor paint chips on car doors, the following repair methods can be used: 1. Touch-up Pen: Purchase a touch-up pen matching or closely resembling your car's color for DIY repairs. 2. Electrical Tape: Apply a similarly colored wax crayon to the scratch, then cover it with electrical tape. 3. Nail Polish: Use a matching nail polish to cover the scratch for a quick fix. 4. Spray Paint: Visit a repair shop for professional spray painting to restore the area.
I occasionally get minor paint chips when opening my car door. While not too serious, it shouldn't be completely ignored. The main concern depends on the location and depth of the damage. If it's just a light surface scratch along the door edge that hasn't penetrated the clear coat, it generally won't affect the car's structure. I've encountered this several times myself - using scratch remover wax I keep at home makes it disappear. However, if the primer is damaged exposing bare metal, moisture and dirt can seep in causing rust. Over time, corrosion spreads making repairs much more troublesome. I recommend checking immediately - run your finger over it to check for smoothness. If you see exposed primer (white) or signs of rust, it's best to visit a professional shop for repainting to prevent worsening. Of course, leaving adequate space when parking daily or applying protective edge guards can reduce such incidents, benefiting long-term maintenance. While accumulated minor chips affect aesthetics and resale value, timely treatment saves both hassle and money.
