How to Repair Paint Chips & Scratches

It is very easy to acquire paint chips or scratches on a car, and it is best to attend to them before rust sets in, since once a car begins to rust it is difficult to arrest the rusting action. Fixing paint chips and scratches requires some skill so it is best to practice on some part of the car that is not visible.

Instructions

1




Wash the car first.

Wash the car and make sure it is completely dry before starting to repair the paint chips or scratches.

2




Paint codes are often found in the door jam.

Look inside the door jam or in the glove compartment to find the paint code for your car. Take this code to the dealer and buy a bottle of touch-up paint.

3




Use a pencil eraser to rid the area of any rust.

Cleanse the chipped or scratched area with an organic cleaner or a degreaser. Any rust should be knocked off with a clean pencil eraser.

4

If there is a large chip, you may have to gently sand the area with fine sandpaper. When sanding is done, wipe the sanded spot with some rubbing alcohol or a rag to make sure it is cleaned of dust. Let the area dry.

5




Use a toothpick to apply the primer.

Dip a toothpick into the primer and gently smooth it over the chip or scratch. Allow each chip or scratch to dry for a minimum of two hours before applying another fine coat of primer. Apply as many coats as needed until the metal beneath is completely covered, waiting two hours between each coat. Use a clean toothpick each time you apply the primer.

6

Shake or mix the touch-up or color-matched paint well and pour a little bit into a small plastic cup or container. This makes it easier to access the paint.

7

Paint over the scratch or chip with a clean toothpick. It is important to use very little paint and to use a clean toothpick each time you want to reload the paint. After each thin application, allow the paint to dry for a couple of hours. Reapply as many times as needed for the depression to be filled. Always make sure to wait two hours between coats.

8

When the depression is completely filled, allow the paint to dry thoroughly for at least one week.

9

Gently wax or polish your car.