How to Fix Paint Chips or Large Scratches on a Car

Introduction

This guide is for people who do not have the time or money to get their car professionally painted. It is also for the people who prefer do-it-yourself repair jobs.

It is best to work in dry non-windy conditions such as in your garage or when its sunny outside with no chance of rain.

What you need

Step 1 How to Fix Paint Chips or Large Scratches on a Car

How to Fix Paint Chips or Large Scratches on a Car, How to Fix Paint Chips or Large Scratches on a Car: step 1, image 1 of 1

Wipe down the area of the paint chip or scratch with a damp papertowel.

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Step 2

Place tape around anything you do not want to get paint on.
e.g. windows, taillights/headlights, metal decals, license plates, etc.

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Step 3

Sand down the paint chip or scratch, including the immediate surrounding area.
Start with a coarse grain.
Then move to a fine grain to remove any sharp edges.
Don't sand too far out around the area. The goal of using sandpaper is to reduce any edges to prevent rusting underneath the paint, and to create a surface that the primer will stick to.

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Step 4

Wipe down the area with a dry papertowel to remove debris.

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Step 5

Spray the primer all over the area that was sanded. Use small strokes and spray the primer around the area.
Wait 10 minutes or until it feels dry when touched.
Add another layer or two if you can still see the edge of the paint chip or scratch.
The goal is to fill in the scratch or chip with primer to prevent rust.
Let it dry for 15-20 minutes before moving to the next step.

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Step 6

Spray on a coat of colored paint. Use small strokes and spray the paint around the area.
Spraying at least 6 inches (no more than 10 inches) away from the surface will prevent paint from dripping.
Paint drips can be removed by gently dabbing them with a dry paper towel.
Allow to dry.
Drying time takes at least 10 minutes per coat of paint.
Continue adding coats and drying in between until primer cannot be seen through the paint.

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Step 7

Spray on the clear protective coat. Use small strokes and spray the clear coat around the area.
Allow to dry for 10 minutes or until the area feels dry when touched.
Add at least 3 more coats, allowing each coat to dry in between.
The clear coat helps prevent rust and adds a refective texture that helps the paint job blend in.