
Touch-up paint will not dry in 20 minutes, and the relevant explanations are as follows: Introduction: During winter, even in a high-temperature room at 50-60 degrees Celsius, it takes several hours for touch-up paint to dry completely. Preparation work: When performing vehicle touch-up painting, 4S shops typically advise owners to leave their keys and, accompanied by the owner, record the vehicle's mileage, fuel gauge reading, overall condition, and external scratches. The owner then confirms and signs the record. Additionally, they will remind the owner to remove any valuables from the car. Nowadays, most standard 4S shops are equipped with surveillance cameras, allowing owners to review the footage in case of lost items.

I've used touch-up paint pens to repair car scratches many times. It usually takes about 20 minutes for the surface to dry to the point where it won't transfer color when lightly touched, but this doesn't mean it's fully cured. In high temperatures with good ventilation, like in summer, it might dry faster, but it takes longer in damp winter conditions. Even when the surface seems dry, avoid washing the car or exposing it to high-speed wind immediately, as this can cause bubbling or peeling. I recommend waiting at least an hour before using the car to be safe, and it's best to leave the repaired area in a well-ventilated place after application. Additionally, choosing a high-quality touch-up pen can speed up drying—some fast-drying types are available—but it's crucial to read the product instructions carefully to avoid compromising the finish for the sake of speed.

Last time I touched up a small scratch on my car door, it took about 20 minutes for the surface to dry, and I could drive without major issues. However, this was just initial drying—full curing might take several hours to a full day. Environmental factors are crucial; for example, it dries much faster under strong sunlight but slows down significantly in rainy or humid conditions. Once, I drove right after touch-up and the wind lifted some rough edges of the paint layer. I later learned it's better to let the car sit still for more stability. DIY touch-up is quite convenient, but don't skip steps—proper cleaning and even, light application are key, or it may not last despite quick drying. Keeping a touch-up pen handy saves minor repairs, but for deep damage, professional treatment is more reliable.

20 minutes may allow the surface of the touch-up paint to dry, but it's not completely cured. I've seen cases where the surface hardened in 20 minutes during hot weather, allowing normal use of the vehicle; however, in cold conditions, it might still be wet. Experience suggests avoiding immediate use of high-pressure water or wiping tools, as they can easily damage the repaired surface. Choosing a well-ventilated location for application can speed up drying, and the quality of the touch-up pen itself also affects drying time—pay attention to the drying time indicated when purchasing. Small repairs with touch-up paint are quite practical for daily vehicle maintenance, but major issues still require professional repair at a shop.


