Quickly Fix Paint Chips With Touch-Up Paint

Paint chips can be frustrating, unsightly, and even dangerous for your vehicle. If left unresolved, even a tiny chip can turn into a bigger problem. Luckily, there are ways to fix paint chips yourself, without having to resort to a full repaint. This usually involves cleaning the chip, applying paint in thin layers, letting it dry, and then sanding it down. However, it's important to assess the size and severity of the chip first. Small chips are relatively easy to fix, but if you're dealing with rust, deep scratches, or larger chips, it's best to call in the professionals.

Clean the chip

To fix paint chips with touch-up paint, the first step is always cleaning. You'll want a squeaky-clean canvas to work with, so start by rinsing the area with water. Then, use warm soapy water to wash the affected area and its immediate surroundings.

Next, you need to clean out the chip itself. This can be done with lacquer thinner, or with sandpaper to get any loose edges. You can also use the edge of a razor blade or Exacto knife to carefully chip away any paint that is not firmly adhered to the substrate. This will help ensure that the touch-up paint adheres properly.

Another tip is to clean the inside of the chip with sandpaper attached to a pencil eraser, then use IPA (isopropyl alcohol) dabbed into the chip. This will help prepare the surface for the touch-up paint.

Once the chip and the surrounding area are clean, you can move on to the next step of applying the touch-up paint.

Sand the area

Sanding is an important step in the paint chip repair process. It helps to smooth out the surface and create a more even finish. Here are some detailed instructions on how to sand the affected area:

Firstly, assess the size and severity of the chip. Small chips are typically easier to fix and can often be repaired with light sanding. If you're dealing with rust, deep scratches, or larger chips, it may be best to consult a professional.

Before sanding, it's crucial to clean the area thoroughly. Rinse the chip and its surrounding area with water, then use warm soapy water to wash away any dirt or debris. This step ensures that you're working on a clean surface.

Once the area is clean and dry, you can begin sanding. Use fine-grit sandpaper, such as 2000-grit, to gently sand the paint chip. Sand in a circular motion, being careful not to apply too much pressure, especially if you're working on a new car. You just want to rough up the surface a little to help the new paint adhere better.

If the chip goes down to the primer or metal, you might need to use a slightly coarser grit sandpaper, such as 1500-grit, to smooth out the surface. Be cautious, as over-sanding can lead to further damage.

After sanding, it's essential to clean the area again to remove any dust or debris created during the sanding process. Use a clean cloth or a brush to wipe away any residue.

Finally, depending on the desired finish, you might want to consider using a product like Langka Blob Eliminator to level the chip and reduce the need for extensive sanding, which can be risky, especially for beginners.

Remember, sanding is just one part of the paint chip repair process, and it's important to follow all the necessary steps, including cleaning, applying touch-up paint, and polishing, to achieve the best results.

Apply paint

Applying the paint

Firstly, it's important to assess the size and severity of the chip. Small chips, typically smaller than a dime, are relatively easy to fix. For larger chips, rust, or deep scratches, it may be best to call in the professionals.

If you are repairing a small chip, start by rinsing the area with water, then use warm soapy water to wash the affected area and its immediate surroundings.

Next, clean out the chip. You can use lacquer thinner or sandpaper to get any loose edges. If you use sandpaper, be careful not to sand too much of the area around the chip.

Now you're ready to apply the paint. If using a touch-up paint pen, apply the paint with a toothpick in little thin dabs. Let it dry a bit between applications. You can also use a fine-tip artist's brush to dab the chip with the appropriate colour. Do not try to make the colour coat flush to the existing painted surface—you need to leave room for the clear coat. Multiple thin coats are preferred over a single heavy coat.

If your touch-up paint has separate base and clear coats, you can try mixing them 50/50. Apply the paint as lightly as you can in layers. If you are using a brush, be careful to minimise any application outside the margin of the chip.

Let it dry

Once you've applied the touch-up paint, it's important to let it dry thoroughly. This can take some time, so be patient! The drying time will vary depending on the temperature and humidity of your environment. In warmer climates, an hour or two may suffice, but in cooler environments, it may take longer. The key is to ensure that the paint is completely dry before moving on to the next step.

While you're waiting for the paint to dry, you can take the opportunity to clean your tools and the surrounding area. Make sure any brushes or applicators are properly cleaned and stored, and wipe down the area around the repair to remove any dust or debris that may have settled during the painting process. It's important to maintain a clean workspace to ensure the best results.

If you're using a touch-up pen, it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time. Some pens may require a longer drying period, especially if the paint is thick. You can also refer to online forums and communities for advice and tips specific to your touch-up pen. People who have used the same product can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on their personal experiences.

During the drying process, try to minimise any disturbances to the paint. Avoid touching or handling the repaired area until the paint is completely dry. This will help ensure a smooth and even finish. It's also important to keep the area well-ventilated to promote proper drying and prevent any potential issues caused by trapped moisture.

Once the paint is dry to the touch, you can proceed with the next steps, such as sanding or polishing, to achieve the desired finish. However, if you notice any imperfections or areas that require additional paint, you can carefully apply thin layers until you achieve the desired result. Remember, multiple thin coats are generally preferable to a single heavy coat.

Polish

There are various products available to polish your car, such as Adam's Polishes Spray Wax, Turtle Wax ICE Seal N Shine Hybrid Sealant Spray Wax, and ColorXlabs color wrap.

It is important to note that repairing paint chips can be challenging, and it may be difficult to make the repair look perfect. Small chips are relatively easy to fix, but if you are dealing with rust, deep scratches, or larger chips, it is recommended to seek professional help to ensure the body integrity of your vehicle is not compromised.

Frequently asked questions