What to Do When the Car Scratch Reaches the Primer?

[VanHayden]

Solutions for scratches reaching the primer include: 1. If the scratched area is not deformed and the area is not large, you can use a paint pen of the same color as the car body to apply; 2. If a lot of paint is scraped off, the damaged area and length are large, and there is obvious deformation, go to a repair shop for sheet metal shaping and paint repair; 3. If the vehicle has scratch insurance or damage insurance, call the insurance company for a claim. The primer is the first layer of the paint system, used to improve the adhesion of the topcoat, increase the fullness of the topcoat, provide alkali resistance, provide anti-corrosion function, and ensure uniform absorption of the topcoat, allowing the paint system to perform well.

[DelAndres]

I've experienced this several times when discovering scratches down to the primer - exposed metal rusts easily. My advice is to immediately clean the wound, dry it with a soft cloth, then use a touch-up pen as emergency treatment. First, buy a specialized pen at an auto parts store that matches your car's color. Apply thin layers carefully without over-thickening, wait until completely dry, then polish lightly. The tools are affordable and easy to learn - online tutorials are available, but steady hands are crucial to avoid leaving bumps that complicate repairs. When parking daily, avoid getting too close to edges; if scratched again, DIY fixes can save hundreds. Prompt treatment delays corrosion - otherwise, rust spreads and repainting costs double.

[McBenjamin]

When the car's paint is scratched down to the bare metal, it's crucial to repair it promptly. As someone who frequently deals with such issues, I emphasize rust prevention—lightly sand off any rough edges with sandpaper, then apply a primer for protection before finishing with topcoat paint. It's recommended to visit a professional auto repair shop or a 4S dealership for diagnosis: technicians will use equipment to precisely match and spray the paint, ensuring a smooth and seamless finish. Although it may take some time and money (approximately 200-800 RMB depending on the size), it guarantees long-term durability and prevents paint peeling. Developing a habit of inspecting your car's body for minor damages monthly can help prevent future issues.

[LaAustin]

Don't panic if the scratch reaches the primer. My first reaction is to clean the wound to waterproof it. Buy a transparent anti-rust coating to temporarily seal it, then consider low-cost options: a touch-up pen works decently for small areas; for larger scratches, it's better to have a small shop assess and quote a reasonable spray painting price. Delaying may lead to rust and corrosion on the metal, potentially costing thousands to fix. I make it a habit to check edges for bubbling during regular car washes to prevent surprises.

[OElliana]

When it comes to scratches on the car's undercoat, I prioritize cost-effectiveness: small scratches can be DIY, but for large areas or critical spots, it's better to have a professional fix them—peace of mind is worth more than saving money. After cleaning, apply a protective spray to prevent rust spots; before painting, choose a color-matched spray can or small pen for an easy and inexpensive fix (materials cost just a few dozen yuan). If not repaired promptly, it not only looks bad but also devalues the car. Adding some care during maintenance can reduce similar scratches.

[VictoriaAnn]

After scratching my own car down to the primer, I learned some basic repair techniques: Clean the stain, sand down burrs with sandpaper, spray primer to level the surface, then apply topcoat to restore the color. The process tests your patience – you'll get the hang of it after a few tries. I recommend buying a paint thickness gauge to check remaining clearcoat and prevent future damage. Early treatment saves major repair costs and extends your car's lifespan – don't wait until rust spreads to panic.