Touch-Up Paint: Fixing Your Toyota 86'S Paint Job

If you're looking to repair scratches or chips on your Toyota 86, touch-up paint can be a great solution. It's important to verify your Toyota colour code before ordering touch-up paint to ensure a perfect match. Several companies offer touch-up paint kits specifically designed for the Toyota 86, which include a range of colours and application tools such as brushes, pens, and spray cans. The application process typically involves cleaning the surface, applying thin layers of paint, and using a patented chemical solution to remove any excess paint and ensure a smooth finish. With the right tools and careful application, you can keep your Toyota 86 looking its best.

Find your Toyota 86's colour code

Finding your Toyota 86's colour code is a straightforward process. First, open the passenger-side door and look for a sticker. This sticker will contain the text "Color Code" followed by a string of letters and numbers (e.g., H8R). This code is specific to your vehicle's colour.

It's important to verify your Toyota 86's colour code before ordering touch-up paint, as the colours may go by different names, and the colour samples shown may only be approximate. For example, Hot Lava Pearl, Halo, and Ablaze are common paint colours for the Toyota 86, with colour codes 4R8, K1X, and M7Y, respectively.

If you cannot find your Toyota 86's colour in a particular database, try entering your colour code instead. Providing the correct colour code ensures that the formulation will be accurate, and you will receive the perfect match for your vehicle.

Additionally, it's worth noting that while some countries, such as Australia and England, may have different names for the same colour, the underlying colour code remains consistent.

Order the correct touch-up paint

Ordering the correct touch-up paint for your Toyota 86 is crucial to achieving a seamless and aesthetically pleasing repair. Here are the steps to follow to ensure you get the right paint:

Locate the Colour Code

Toyota makes it relatively easy to find your car's unique colour code. Start by locating the colour ID plate on the driver's door jamb. The plate will have the letters "C/TR" followed by a three-digit paint code. This code is essential for ordering the correct touch-up paint.

Verify the Colour

Before placing your order, double-check the colour associated with your car's code. Toyota, like many manufacturers, uses the same paint across multiple models but assigns a different colour name to each model. This can cause confusion, so it's important to verify that the colour code matches the desired colour for your Toyota 86.

Choose a Reputable Supplier

Select a supplier that offers a colour match guarantee, such as PaintScratch.com. They ensure that their paint will match the original colour chip provided by the manufacturer, and they offer free replacements if there is any discrepancy. This gives you peace of mind and confidence in your purchase.

Order a Test Quantity

If you're unsure about the colour match or the quality of the paint, consider ordering a small quantity or a touch-up kit first. This way, you can test the paint on a small area and ensure that it dries to the correct colour and finish. Many suppliers offer kits that include all the necessary tools for a successful touch-up job.

Prepare the Surface

Before applying the touch-up paint, make sure the surface is clean and free of dirt, wax, and polish. You can use a patented cleaning solution, such as CorrectNClear Solution, to ensure the surface is ready for paint application. A clean surface will help the paint adhere better and produce a smoother finish.

By following these steps and ordering touch-up paint that matches your Toyota 86's colour code, you can ensure a precise repair that blends seamlessly with the original paintwork. Remember to take your time, work in thin layers, and allow adequate drying time for the best results.

Clean the area to be repaired

To fix your Toyota 86 with touch-up paint, the first step is to clean the area to be repaired. This is a crucial step as it ensures proper paint adhesion and helps to avoid bubbling or streaking. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Firstly, wash the area that requires touch-up paint. Use a glass cleaner or a wax and grease remover to ensure that all dirt, wax, and polish are removed. You can also use dish soap and water, but avoid using regular car soap as it often contains car wax. After washing, dry the area thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.

Next, inspect the area under bright lighting to ensure no residue remains. Mark the problem areas with masking tape. Pay close attention to areas prone to damage, such as door edges and bumpers, and mark all scratches or chips you find.

Now, it's time to sand the surface. Use fine-grit sandpaper (1500-2500 grit) to smooth out the chip and remove any glossy finish. Be careful not to sand too aggressively, as this can damage the surrounding paint or deepen the chip. Use light, short strokes, and stop sanding as soon as the surface feels smooth.

After sanding, use a cotton swab with automotive paint thinner to clean the sanded area. Apply the thinner sparingly and only to the sanded area, as using too much can damage the surrounding paint.

Finally, go over the area with a lint-free towel and a prep solvent to ensure that all traces of wax, silicone, and oils are removed. This step is important because silicone, in particular, can cause "fish eyes," a defect in the coating.

By following these steps, you will have a clean and prepared surface ready for the application of touch-up paint. Remember to always work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, when handling chemicals.

Apply the paint in thin layers

When applying touch-up paint to your Toyota 86, it's important to work carefully and patiently. Applying thin layers of paint is crucial to achieving a smooth and even finish. Here's a detailed guide to help you through the process:

Firstly, it's essential to prepare the surface before applying any paint. Clean and sand the area that needs touch-up work. This step highlights the affected area, making it easier to repair. It also helps to identify other spots that may require touch-up painting. Make sure to remove any dirt, wax, or polish from the surface. If the surface is rusty, use sandpaper or a wire brush to eliminate all traces of rust.

Now, let's focus on applying the paint in thin layers. Using a microbrush, gently apply the custom-made paint to the prepared surface. Work in thin, controlled amounts to avoid overloading the brush, which can result in thick paint globules. Start in the middle of the area you're touching up and gradually work your way outwards. This technique helps achieve a seamless blend with the surrounding paint. Remember to wear protective gloves to avoid direct contact with the paint.

If you need to cover a larger surface area, consider using a paint correction pen or a spray gun. A spray gun uses air pressure to apply paint evenly and efficiently. However, always set the spray gun to low pressure to avoid blasting off the touch-up paint.

After applying each thin layer of paint, allow it to dry completely before proceeding. The drying time can vary depending on temperature and the amount of paint applied, typically ranging from 40 seconds to 5 minutes. You can use a hairdryer on a low setting to speed up the drying process if needed.

Once the paint is dry to the touch, evaluate the area from different viewpoints and lighting conditions. This will help you determine if the paint blends well with the surrounding area. If necessary, apply another thin layer of paint to achieve the desired coverage and uniformity. Remember, it's better to build up thin layers gradually than to apply a thick coat that may lead to an uneven finish.

By following these steps and applying the paint in thin layers, you can achieve a professional and seamless touch-up paint job on your Toyota 86. Remember to take your time, work in a well-ventilated area, and wear the appropriate protective gear.

Remove excess paint with a towel

When it comes to fixing your Toyota 86 with touch-up paint, one of the important steps is to remove any excess paint with a towel. Here's a detailed guide on how to do this effectively:

Firstly, it's crucial to use the correct type of towel. Opt for a soft, absorbent microfibre towel, as this will help lift away the excess paint without causing scratches or damage to the surface of your car. Make sure the towel is clean and free of any dirt or debris that could potentially cause scratches.

Now, let's discuss the technique. Begin by applying light pressure to the towel and gently running it across the painted surface. It's important not to push too hard on the surface; instead, let the blending solution do the work for you. Use gentle, sweeping motions to absorb and remove the excess paint. Focus on the areas around the chip or scratch that may have been accidentally covered during the painting process.

Repeat this process as many times as needed until all the excess paint is removed. Be patient and take your time with this step, as it's important to ensure that the paint is evenly distributed and that no paint residue remains. After each pass, inspect the towel to gauge how much paint is being picked up. If necessary, switch to a clean section of the towel or use a new one to ensure effectiveness.

Once you're satisfied that all the excess paint has been removed, it's time to let the paint dry. Follow the paint manufacturer's instructions for the recommended drying time, which can vary depending on factors such as temperature and the quantity of paint applied. During this drying period, avoid touching or wiping the painted area to prevent any accidental smudges or marks.

By following these steps, you'll be able to effectively remove excess paint with a towel, ensuring a smooth and professional finish to your Toyota 86 touch-up paint job. Remember to take your time and work gently to achieve the best results.

Frequently asked questions