Is It Serious If the White Primer Is Exposed on a Red Car?
3 Answers
If the primer has been exposed, it is considered a relatively serious situation. Here is an introduction to the primer: 1. The role of primer: Automotive primer is the first layer of paint applied to the car body. Generally, only after the primer is sprayed can the next painting process proceed. As a primer, its primary function is to protect the car body. The primer comes into direct contact with the car body, which is mainly made of metal, so the primer must have excellent anti-corrosion and anti-rust properties, as well as good adhesion to both the car body and the topcoat. 2. Types of primer: Currently, primers can generally be divided into immersion primers, water-based immersion primers, anodic electrophoretic primers, and cathodic electrophoretic primers. Most passenger cars use cathodic electrophoretic primers, which are usually white or gray in color, depending on the vehicle model. For example, black cars typically use white primers, while white cars use gray primers, mainly to make it easier to identify the primer when the paint is scratched. 3. Timely repair of primer: If a car is scratched, whether the primer is exposed or not, it is recommended to repair any deep scratches to prevent rust from forming over time, which would further affect the appearance. If the metal shell is scratched and the primer is exposed, it will not rust, but if the metal is exposed, even a small spot, it should be repaired promptly. Otherwise, the affected area may expand.
I just went through this last week—my red car got a small scrape in the parking lot, revealing the white primer underneath. At first, I thought it was no big deal, but after consulting a mechanic friend, I learned it’s actually a minor issue. While not as bad as exposed metal (which can rust), the primer acts as a protective layer. Without it, dust and moisture can accumulate, potentially leading to deeper rust over time. Repair costs vary by location: small shops charge anywhere from tens to 200 yuan for touch-ups, while dealerships often demand 400–500 yuan. On a tight budget, I opted for a touch-up pen as a quick fix, spending just a few dozen yuan. Overall, it’s not a major concern if addressed promptly; leaving it unattended could worsen and turn into a costly repair later. Being cautious in narrow or crowded areas while driving can help avoid such expenses.
As someone who has long been concerned about vehicle maintenance, I believe this situation requires vigilance regarding the exposed white primer. The primer serves as a critical barrier against rust, and once exposed to air—especially in rainy or humid conditions—moisture infiltration can corrode the metal. Over time, this can compromise the structural safety of the vehicle body, particularly in areas like the wheel arches or undercarriage. I recommend immediate temporary repairs—such as applying clear tape to prevent dust—followed by prompt repainting. This will prevent rust from spreading and ensure smooth driving. While it may seem like a minor issue, neglecting it can be costly: at best, it affects the appearance; at worst, it leads to significantly higher repair costs. Developing a habit of regularly inspecting scratches can help avoid future hazards.
