How To Repair Chipped Paint On Your Car
If the paint on your car is chipped, you may be able to repair it yourself. If they are not fixed, over time they will start to rust. This method works for fresh chips that have not start to rust. You should never repair the chips in direct sun, or if the temperature is below 50 degrees Fahrenheit:
Finding the Paint
You will find a variety of car touch up paints at most auto parts stores. Look up the year, make, and model of your car in the booklet at the store to find the type of paint you need. These colors will be numbered so you can find the exact color you need. For example, if your vehicle is red, the color may say "red 50." You can then find the bottle of paint with this number.
It is important that you do this so the paint will perfectly match your car. If you have trouble, ask an employee to help you. While at the auto parts store, purchase some auto primer.
Clean the Paint Chips
Use soap and water to clean each chip, and then dry with a soft cloth. Put some automotive polishing compound onto a soft cloth, and rub it on the chip gently using a swirling motion, much like when you wax a car. Just a few swirls will work. You do not want to do it too much, or you could damage the clear coat. You can purchase this compound at auto parts stores.
Put some rubbing alcohol onto a soft cloth and wipe a few times over the chips. This will remove any remaining dirt and wax that may be present.
Apply the Primer
Dip the butt end of a paper match into the primer, and apply it within the chip out to the edges. Make sure you do not go beyond the edges, as you do not want the primer to get on any other part of your car. Let the primer dry for 30 minutes.
Paint the Chips
Test the paint on a piece of paper to make sure it matches your car. If so, put a small amount of paint on the applicator brush that comes with it, and apply it over the primer. Let it dry for one hour, and then apply a second coat. Allow the paint to cure for one week, and then use the polishing compound to rub over it. This will feather the edges of the paint so it looks natural.
If you have problems doing this, an auto body shop can make these repairs for you. For more help, try learning more about DIY auto repair manuals.