Why Does Factory Paint Bubble?
3 Answers
Factory paint bubbles for the following reasons: 1. Poor paint quality: This issue often occurs at roadside shops that substitute inferior products, selling so-called factory paint at low prices while actually using substandard materials. 2. Improper application conditions and process: Paint application requires strict technical standards and professional environments operated by specialists, otherwise bubbling easily occurs. 3. Excessive paint thickness: Inattentiveness during spraying or technicians' limited skills often result in overly thick paint layers that cause sagging beneath the surface.
I deal with cars every day and often see paint bubbling issues, especially on brand-new factory vehicles. Bubbling usually occurs during the factory painting process when surface contaminants like oil or dust aren't properly cleaned before painting, trapping them beneath the coating. Over time, moisture or thermal expansion causes these trapped substances to expand, pushing up the paint and forming bubbles. Metal pretreatment is also crucial—insufficient rust removal or uneven primer application prevents proper paint adhesion. I've even seen cases caused by improper temperature control: high humidity in the hot paint booth trapping moisture under the paint. Defects often appear in inconspicuous areas like door seams or hood edges. When picking up a new car, carefully inspect the bodywork and claim warranty for any small bubbles immediately. Regular cleaning helps, but avoid washing in direct sunlight to prevent worsening paint conditions. As the old saying goes, 'Sharpening the axe won't delay the cutting'—proper surface preparation is key to preventing bubbles.
My own car had bubbling issues, and I later learned the cause from consulting experts. During the factory painting process, if the surface isn't properly cleaned, tiny traces of grease or water droplets can get trapped beneath the paint layers. When environmental conditions change, these substances expand, pushing up bubbles. It's like when clothes have stains that aren't fully cleaned, and over time, they start to bulge. In terms of craftsmanship, uneven electrocoating or improper spray gun distance control can lead to paint film defects. New cars should receive free repairs under warranty, but don't delay too long because bubbles can hide potential rust spots that compromise overall appearance. I recommend thoroughly feeling the car body before purchase to check for small bumps; for daily maintenance, use a car cover in summer to reduce direct sunlight exposure and protect the paint from developing issues. Although factory standards are high, human errors can still occur.
