Will the putty and paint applied at a 4S shop crack?

[Weston]

Normally, the putty and paint applied at a 4S shop will not crack. If cracking occurs, it means the repair was not done properly. If there are dents on the car, the auto detailing technicians will first pull out the dented area to ensure it is level with the surrounding surface. Then, they will sand it, apply putty, sand it again, and finally paint it after it dries. Since the paint thickness is uniform, skipping the putty application and painting directly will not smooth out the scratches, and the scratch marks will still be visible after painting, resulting in an uneven paint surface. The purpose of applying putty is to fill in the scratches, followed by two rounds of wet sanding to achieve a smooth surface, ensuring better smoothness and gloss of the paint after application. Applying putty is a crucial step to ensure the paint comes out smooth and even.

[DiEliana]

I've been handling car repairs for many years. Generally, the putty and paint applied by 4S shops are less prone to cracking, but it really depends on the specific situation. Their advantages lie in the high-quality materials, professional putty formulations that dry quickly with strong adhesion, and meticulous sanding before painting to ensure a smooth, impurity-free surface. Common causes of cracking may include applying putty too thickly without layering before rushing to paint, or high environmental temperatures leading to shrinkage cracks. If car owners aren't careful after repairs—such as exposing the car to intense sunlight or using high-pressure water jets during washing—problems can easily arise. It's advisable to choose a reputable 4S shop and have them use professional instruments to check the paint's durability post-repair. Regular waxing during maintenance can also help protect the paint. Don't opt for small workshops just to save money, as dealing with cracking later can be more troublesome.

[DiColin]

I've been driving for over a decade and had paint jobs done at 4S shops three times, only noticing minor cracks once due to my own oversight. 4S shops generally have solid techniques: they use imported fillers and follow standardized painting procedures including multiple coatings and even baking; cracking is mostly caused by external factors like road bumps or failure to control extreme weather conditions. If the filler quality is poor or workers cut corners by painting before proper drying, the risk of cracks increases. My advice is to avoid highways or severe vibrations in the first few days after repair, allowing the paint to fully cure. Gentle car washing helps maintain the paint for years—it's quite durable. Remember to ask for a warranty card; they'll provide free touch-ups if issues arise.

[KennedyMarie]

I know a bit about car maintenance. Paint cracking at 4S shops is uncommon but can happen. The main causes are improper application of putty, such as applying it too thickly without layering, leading to inconsistent shrinkage when heated; failure to thoroughly clean oil stains before painting can also affect adhesion. Good 4S shops have well-trained workers who control temperature and humidity to prevent issues. Preventing cracking is simple: avoid high-temperature exposure after painting, don't park the car in direct sunlight; regularly wax to protect edges and corners. If small cracks appear, return to the shop early for treatment, don't let it worsen. Choosing a reputable 4S shop is more reliable.