A flawless paint job on a car can often be marred by something as minute as an inch long scrape. Rather than sending it for what can be a costly repainting exercise, knowing how to touch up car paint can save you a lot of money.
To make sure you don’t waste time discovering other spots that may need repainting on your car, take the time to go over the entire car and notes any areas that need a touch up. The list you make might wind up surprising you with how long it is. Knowing how to touch up car paint also involves buying the right sort of paint for your car. Paint is available in touch-up bottles, aerosol cans and brush-tipped applicators for finer detailing. Try to get paint that is used specifically for touch ups and be aware that paint obtained from auto parts stores may not provide good results.
A car that has to be retouched should be thoroughly cleaned. At the very least, the area you intend to repaint should be dry and free of dirt, debris and grime and cleaned with a wax remover in addition to working in dry, not humid conditions. The area to be repainted should be lightly sanded with sandpaper specifically designed for use on automotive paint. Ensure any paint on adjacent areas that adheres poorly is also removed. Any dust produced by this should be cleaned away before a clear coat layer is laid to as a base for the paint. Always follow manufacturer’s directions to the letter.
Carry out a spot test on a hidden area of the car before actually using the paint. Test the paint over the base coat as well to get an idea of how glossy the end result will be. Always shake the paint thoroughly before you begin. For medium sized to large areas, paint should be sprayed on with straight, even back and forth motions. The first pass of spray should be overlapped by the second by approximately half its width.
For small areas, the paper end of a cardboard matchstick can be used for paint application. Other options include a toothpick or fine brushes available from art supply stores. Paint should be applied in 2 to 3 layers to build up well above the area of the surrounding paint. Paint should be left for 24 hours to dry before sanding very gently with very fine sandpaper followed by polishing and waxing for a high shine.
