Paint Chip Repair Advice

Next, use rubbing alcohol over the chipped area to remove sanding dust and any fine layer of dirt. If necessary, re-prime the spot, using a toothpick as an application tool.


Some touch-up gurus recommend a very fine sable brush available through an art store. Whichever you use, the thing you're trying to avoid is applying globs of paint to the surface. Place the paint-coated toothpick in the center of the chip and allow the primer to flow into the indentation. You'll need to apply at least two thin coats of primer onto the depression, making sure any exposed metal is covered.


The primer layer has to be below the surface of the intact paint or your chip will end up as a bump. It takes about two hours for each primer layer to completely dry. Lightly wet-sand the area once it has dried, then finish this step with another wipe of rubbing alcohol.


Next up is the touch-up paint. Use the same technique as with the primer, but employing a new toothpick to apply the paint. Even if the first application doesn't completely cover the primer, do not flood the area with more paint. Let it dry for about two hours. (Remember, we said this takes patience.) Repeat until the depression is filled with multiple thin coats of paint and the area bulges slightly above the original paint areas. Wait a week to let the paint completely cure.


Your next tool is a 2,000-grit flat sanding block, also available at your auto parts store. Follow the directions on the sanding block; some require a 24-hour soaking period before use. Use the block in a back-and-forth motion, as opposed to a circular motion, until the new paint mound is reduced to the same level as the surrounding paint. Clean the area and apply a glaze or wax to renew a high gloss to the paint. If you've followed these directions carefully, using skill and patience, you too can say goodbye to paint chips.