How to Fix Paint Chips
Learn how to fix paint chips with our detailed step-by-step guide. Follow our easy instructions to get it done right.
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0 of 6 steps completedStep-by-Step Instructions
1 Step 1: Clean and Inspect Chip
Step 1: Clean and Inspect Chip
Wash area with soap, dry completely, assess chip depth - whether down to primer or bare metal.
Car Wash Soap
pH-neutral soap for cleaning paint before repair
2 Step 2: Remove Rust if Present
Step 2: Remove Rust if Present
If chip shows rust, apply rust converter or sand lightly until clean metal shows.
Rust Converter
Chemical that converts rust to stable surface for painting
Fine Sandpaper Assortment
800-2000 grit sandpaper for paint prep
3 Step 3: Apply Primer if Needed
Step 3: Apply Primer if Needed
For chips to bare metal, apply thin coat of automotive primer with toothpick or small brush.
Automotive Primer Pen
Touch-up primer for filling paint chips to metal
4 Step 4: Apply Touch-Up Paint
Step 4: Apply Touch-Up Paint
Use paint matched to your car color code, apply thin layers with toothpick until level with surrounding paint.
Touch-Up Paint Kit
OEM color-matched paint with applicator brush
Paint Mixing Sticks
Toothpicks for precise paint chip filling
5 Step 5: Apply Clear Coat
Step 5: Apply Clear Coat
After paint dries (24 hours), apply clear coat to protect and blend repair with surrounding finish.
Clear Coat Pen
Automotive clear coat for sealing touch-up paint
6 Step 6: Wet Sand and Polish
Step 6: Wet Sand and Polish
After clear coat cures (48 hours), wet sand with 2000 grit, polish to blend with surrounding paint.
2000 Grit Wet Sandpaper
Ultra-fine sandpaper for leveling touch-up paint
Polishing Compound
Fine compound for blending touch-up repairs