Is Painting Necessary When the Car's Primer is Exposed?

[EmmanuelMarie]

If the metal panel is not exposed, painting may not be necessary, but if the metal panel of the car body is exposed, painting is required. The following are the treatment methods for metal panel scratches of varying degrees: Minor Scratches: Minor scratches such as swirl marks only damage the surface layer of the paint. These scratches cause minimal damage to the paint and are relatively easy to repair, often solvable through waxing. You can start by using scratch remover wax, applying it with a waxing sponge to polish the scratched area, moving in a consistent clockwise or counterclockwise direction. Then, use a gloss-enhancing wax to make the painted surface appear shinier. Deep Scratches: If the scratch on the car body directly exposes the metal panel or the scratched area is larger than a fingernail, the damage has penetrated below the primer. In such cases, immediately take the car to a 4S shop or an auto beauty shop with a paint baking facility. The paint repair technician will reapply the anti-rust primer and perform a surface paint repair. If the damaged paint is not repaired promptly, corrosive substances can gradually oxidize, leading to rust and worsening of the damaged area, resulting in greater losses.

[LeRuth]

After the car's primer is exposed, I strongly recommend getting it repainted. The exposed metal parts directly contact air and moisture, making them highly prone to rust and corrosion. This isn't just an appearance issue—rust spreading can damage the vehicle's structure and increase future repair costs. Having driven for over a decade, I once used a small touch-up pen for minor scratches, only for rust spots to spread across the entire door, costing a fortune to fix later. For small areas, professional spot painting at a repair shop is efficient and aesthetically pleasing. After rain, washing the car promptly to keep the surface dry can also delay the problem. But in the long run, repainting is the real solution—prevention is better than cure.

[LaAndrew]

I don't think immediate repainting is absolutely necessary, but it should be addressed sooner rather than later. With primer exposed, the risk of rust is very high, and delaying repairs could double the cost. I've tried using stickers or wax paste to cover small exposed spots – it's cheap and simple, but only a temporary fix. In areas with heavy rainfall, corrosion accelerates. Last year, I ignored a small scratch on my car, and by summer, it had rusted extensively. If budget is tight, start by applying rust-proof spray for protection while saving up for a proper paint job. Remember, keeping the vehicle dry is crucial – drying the exposed areas after washing can help temporarily. Don't risk bigger problems by trying to save small amounts.

[JanelleLee]

From a safety perspective, I must emphasize the necessity of painting. Without primer, the metal is prone to rust, and deep corrosion can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle, posing significant risks while driving. I once witnessed a friend's car with rusted-through chassis, leading to dangerous and costly repairs. Temporary fixes like DIY touch-ups may address cosmetic issues but won't provide a permanent solution. I recommend promptly visiting a professional shop for a thorough evaluation and comprehensive repair. Additionally, avoiding waterlogged roads and minimizing exposure to rain can slow down corrosion, but proper painting remains the ultimate safeguard.