How to Fix Car Chips: A Comprehensive Guide to Stone Chip Repair

Stone chips are an unfortunate reality for car owners. These small blemishes in your car’s paintwork, often found on the hood, bumper, and fenders, are typically caused by gravel, road debris, and salt kicked up from the tires of other vehicles. They might seem minor, but these chips can expose the bare metal underneath, leading to rust and further damage if left unattended. Motorway driving and winter conditions, with increased road debris and salt grit, exacerbate the problem, making stone chips a common headache for drivers.

car stone chip repair

While completely avoiding stone chips might be impossible, addressing them promptly is crucial. The good news is that car chip repair is often straightforward and cost-effective, especially when tackled early. This guide will walk you through understanding car chips and provide you with actionable steps on How To Fix Car Chips effectively, keeping your vehicle looking its best and preventing more serious issues down the line.

Knowing When to Call a Professional for Car Chip Repair

For minor car chips, a DIY approach can be a viable solution. However, there are situations where seeking professional stone chip repair services is highly recommended. Understanding these scenarios can save you time, money, and potential further damage to your vehicle. Here’s when you should consider going to an expert:

• Exposed Base Metal: If the stone chip has penetrated through the paint layers and exposed the bare metal underneath, it’s best to consult a professional. Exposed metal is vulnerable to rust, and professional treatment ensures proper sealing and protection against corrosion.
• Presence of Rust: If you notice rust forming within or around the stone chip, DIY touch-up might not suffice. Rust needs to be properly treated and removed before any paint repair. Professionals have the tools and expertise to address rust effectively, preventing it from spreading and causing more significant structural damage.
• Multiple or Large Chips: Dealing with a few small chips is manageable for DIY enthusiasts. However, if your car has numerous stone chips or larger areas of damage, a professional repair will ensure a consistent and high-quality finish. They can handle the complexities of blending paint across larger areas and ensure a seamless repair.
• Damage in Visible Areas: Chips in prominent areas like the center of the hood or door panels are more noticeable. Professional repair services are better equipped to achieve an invisible repair in these areas, preserving your car’s aesthetic appeal.
• Lack of Confidence or Experience: If you are unsure about your DIY skills or prefer a guaranteed professional result, opting for expert car chip repair is always a wise choice. Professionals have the experience, color-matching technology, and specialized tools to deliver a flawless finish.

Attempting DIY repairs in these situations might lead to unsatisfactory results or even worsen the problem. Investing in professional stone chip repair ensures the damage is addressed correctly, preserving the integrity and appearance of your vehicle for the long term.

Cost Considerations for Stone Chip Repair

The cost to fix car chips can vary depending on whether you choose a DIY approach or professional services. Understanding these cost factors will help you make an informed decision based on your budget and the extent of the damage.

DIY Stone Chip Repair Kits:

For minor stone chips, DIY kits offer a cost-effective solution. These kits typically range from £10 to £50 and include touch-up paint, applicators, and sometimes rubbing compound.

• Pros: Affordable, convenient for small chips, and allows for immediate action.
• Cons: Color matching can be challenging with generic kits, potentially leading to noticeable repairs. Cheaper kits might lack the quality for a seamless finish. Durability might be less compared to professional repairs.

Professional Stone Chip Repair Services:

For more extensive damage or when you desire a flawless finish, professional services are the way to go. The cost of professional stone chip repair can vary based on the extent of the damage, the type of car, and the repair technique used.

• SMART Repair (Small to Medium Area Repair Technology): This localized repair technique is often more affordable than a full panel respray. SMART repair focuses on fixing only the damaged area, saving time and money. Costs can range from £50 to £200+ per panel depending on the size and complexity of the repair.
• Full Panel Respray: In cases of severe damage or extensive stone chips across a panel, a full respray might be necessary. This is a more expensive option, typically costing £200 to £500+ per panel.
• Mobile Repair Services: Many professional services offer mobile car chip repair, bringing the expertise to your location. This adds convenience and can sometimes be more cost-effective than body shop visits.

Factors Affecting Professional Repair Costs:

• Number and Size of Chips: More chips and larger damaged areas will increase the repair cost.
• Paint Type: Special paints like metallic or pearlescent finishes might require more complex color matching and application, influencing the price.
• Vehicle Make and Model: Luxury or high-end vehicles may have higher repair costs due to specialized paints and bodywork.
• Repair Technique: The chosen repair method (SMART repair vs. full respray) significantly impacts the overall cost.

While DIY kits are tempting for their low price, investing in professional stone chip repair often provides better value in the long run, ensuring a durable, aesthetically pleasing, and rust-protected finish, particularly for more significant damage or when aiming for a showroom-quality result.

Step-by-Step Guide: DIY Touch-Up for Car Chips

For minor stone chips that haven’t exposed bare metal or developed rust, a DIY touch-up can be an effective solution. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to touch up stone chips on a car, ensuring a professional-looking result:

1. Thorough Cleaning:

   • Begin by washing the affected area with soap and water to remove dirt and grime.
   • Use a wax and grease remover, or isopropyl alcohol, to clean the area thoroughly. This is crucial for removing any remaining wax, grease, or contaminants that could prevent proper paint adhesion.
   • Ensure the area is completely dry before proceeding.

2. Addressing Raised Edges:

   • Inspect the chip for any raised edges of paint around the perimeter.
   • Use a cutting compound like T-Cut or a very fine-grit wet and dry sandpaper (3000 grit or higher) to gently level these edges.
   • Caution: Be extremely careful not to scratch the surrounding clear coat. Use minimal pressure and focus only on the raised edges of the chip. For sandpaper, wrap it around a small, flat object like a pencil eraser for better control.

3. Primer Application (Optional but Recommended):

   • For chips that are slightly deeper or have reached the primer layer, applying a thin coat of automotive primer is recommended. This promotes better adhesion of the touch-up paint and provides added corrosion protection.
   • Use a fine-tipped brush or applicator to apply a tiny amount of primer only within the chip.
   • Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. Applying Touch-Up Paint:

   • Shake the touch-up paint bottle thoroughly to ensure proper mixing.
   • Using a fine-tipped brush, applicator, or paint pen (often included in kits), apply the touch-up paint in very thin layers within the chip.
   • Key Technique: Apply multiple thin layers rather than one thick layer. This prevents paint from sagging or creating a blob effect. Allow each layer to dry for the recommended time (check paint instructions) before applying the next.
   • Keep the paint application confined to the chip area, avoiding spreading onto the surrounding good paintwork.

5. Leveling the Paint (If Necessary):

   • Once the touch-up paint is completely dry (allow ample drying time, ideally 24-48 hours), assess if the new paint is level with the surrounding paintwork.
   • If the touch-up paint is slightly raised, you can gently level it using very fine-grit wet and dry sandpaper (3000 grit or higher) or a specialized leveling solution available in some touch-up kits.
   • Wet Sanding Technique (Optional, for advanced DIYers): For wet sanding, soak the sandpaper in water with a drop of car soap. Lightly sand the touch-up area in circular motions, keeping the area wet. Check frequently to avoid sanding too much into the surrounding clear coat.

6. Clear Coat Application (If Applicable):

   • If your car has a clear coat finish (most modern cars do), and your touch-up kit includes clear coat, apply it as the final step.
   • Apply a thin layer of clear coat over the touch-up paint, again keeping it within the repaired area.
   • Allow it to dry completely.

7. Polishing and Blending:

   • After the clear coat is fully cured, use a polishing compound to gently blend the edges of the repaired area with the surrounding paintwork.
   • Apply a small amount of polishing compound to a microfiber cloth and rub gently in circular motions. This will help to smooth out any minor imperfections and enhance the shine.
   • Finish with a coat of car wax or sealant to protect the repaired area and enhance the overall finish.

Important Tips for DIY Car Chip Repair:

• Color Matching is Key: Obtain touch-up paint that precisely matches your car’s paint code. You can usually find your car’s paint code on a sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb, in the glove compartment, or in your car’s owner’s manual.
• Practice Makes Perfect: If possible, practice your touch-up technique on a less visible area of your car or a test panel before tackling prominent chips.
• Work in a Clean, Well-Lit Area: Avoid working in direct sunlight or dusty environments. Good lighting is essential for seeing the chips clearly and applying paint accurately.
• Patience is Crucial: Allow ample drying time between each step. Rushing the process can lead to unsatisfactory results.

By following these detailed steps and taking your time, you can effectively fix car chips yourself, maintaining your car’s appearance and preventing further damage.

FAQs About Stone Chip Repair

Can a stone chip be repaired?

Yes, most stone chips in car paintwork are repairable. The extent of the repair depends on the chip’s size, depth, and whether rust has formed. DIY methods work well for minor chips, while professional services are ideal for more significant damage or when seeking a flawless finish. Addressing stone chips promptly is crucial to prevent rust and maintain your car’s value.

Is WD-40 effective for removing car scratches?

No, WD-40 is not designed to remove car scratches. While it might temporarily mask minor scratches by adding shine and filling them with oil, it does not repair the paint damage. For scratch removal, use dedicated car scratch removers or polishing compounds. WD-40 can be useful for cleaning and lubrication but not for paint correction.

Is it worth getting stone chips repaired?

Absolutely, repairing stone chips is worth it for several reasons:

• Prevents Rust: Chips expose bare metal, leading to rust. Repairing them prevents corrosion and more costly repairs down the line.
• Maintains Resale Value: A car free of chips and scratches is more appealing to buyers and retains a higher resale value.
• Improves Aesthetics: Repairing stone chips significantly enhances your car’s appearance, giving it a cleaner and well-maintained look.
• Cost-Effective: Early chip repair is generally inexpensive compared to dealing with rust damage or panel replacements later.

Are stone chips on cars common?

Yes, stone chips are very common, especially on areas like the hood, bumper, and front fenders. They are caused by road debris, gravel, and salt kicked up by tires, particularly at higher speeds and in winter conditions. Regular car maintenance and protective measures can help minimize but not entirely eliminate them.

Can you simply spray paint over stone chips?

No, you cannot just spray paint directly over stone chips. This will result in an uneven surface with visible indentations. Stone chips need to be properly filled and leveled with touch-up paint or filler before any topcoat or spray paint is applied to achieve a smooth and professional finish.

Why does my car keep getting stone chips?

Cars frequently get stone chips due to road conditions, driving habits, and vehicle design. Factors include:

• Road Debris: Gravel, small stones, and road salt are common on roads and get kicked up by tires.
• Driving Speed: Higher speeds increase the force of impact from road debris.
• Following Distance: Driving too close to vehicles ahead increases the risk of debris hitting your car.
• Winter Driving: Salt and grit used in winter road maintenance contribute to stone chips.

While unavoidable to a degree, maintaining a safe following distance, avoiding gravel roads when possible, and using protective measures can help reduce stone chips.

What’s the best protection against stone chips?

The best protection methods against stone chips range from cost-effective DIY solutions to professional applications:

• Paint Protection Film (PPF): This is the most effective but also most expensive option. PPF is a transparent film professionally applied to vulnerable areas, providing a strong physical barrier against chips and scratches.
• Spray-on Paint Sealants: Products like Supagard offer a durable layer of protection against minor chips and environmental damage, less costly than PPF.
• Car Wax and Sealants (DIY): Regular application of car wax or sealant creates a protective layer on the paint, offering some resistance against stone chips at a budget-friendly price.
• Mud Flaps: Installing mud flaps, especially on front wheels, can help deflect road debris and reduce chips on lower body panels.

Choosing the right protection depends on your budget and desired level of defense against stone chips.

If you’re considering professional stone chip repair, remember that ChipsAway specialists are experts in car scratch removal and chip repair. They offer convenient mobile repair services, bringing their expertise to your home or workplace. For a free, no-obligation estimate, complete our online form or call us today. Protect your car’s appearance and value by addressing those stone chips promptly!