Can You Fix Paint Chips on Your Car? A Comprehensive Guide

Stone chips are an unfortunate reality for car owners. These small blemishes in your car’s paintwork, often found on the bonnet, bumper, and wheel arches, are caused by flying debris from the road. While seemingly minor, ignoring them can lead to bigger problems. The good news is, yes, you can fix paint chips on your car, and this guide will show you how and when.

Stone chips are essentially small, deep, and localized areas of damage to your car’s paint. They commonly occur when gravel and road debris are kicked up by the tires of vehicles in front of you, especially at higher speeds on motorways. Winter driving often exacerbates the issue due to salt and grit spread on roads, increasing the amount of loose debris. Furthermore, winter weather itself can worsen stone chips. Rainwater and ice can penetrate the exposed area, reaching the bare metal beneath the paint. This moisture can accelerate corrosion and rust, turning a small cosmetic issue into a more serious structural problem if left unattended.

Car stone chip damage needing repair

The prevalence of stone chips makes them almost unavoidable. However, prompt repair is crucial. Addressing paint chips quickly prevents further deterioration, especially during wet or icy conditions, safeguarding your car’s bodywork from rust and maintaining its overall appearance and value.

DIY vs. Professional Stone Chip Repair: Which is Right for You?

Faced with a stone chip, many car owners consider a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach using touch-up paint kits. For very minor chips that haven’t gone down to the bare metal, this can be a viable solution. However, there are situations where professional stone chip repair is highly recommended, and sometimes necessary.

When DIY Stone Chip Repair Might Be Suitable:

• Superficial Chips: If the chip is small and only affects the clear coat or top layers of paint, a DIY touch-up can effectively conceal the damage and prevent further issues.
• Cosmetic Improvement is the Goal: If you’re primarily concerned with improving the appearance of minor chips and are comfortable with a less-than-perfect finish, DIY can be a cost-effective option.

When Professional Stone Chip Repair is Recommended:

• Exposed Base Metal: If the stone chip has penetrated through the paint layers and exposed the bare metal underneath, professional repair is crucial. Exposed metal is vulnerable to rust and corrosion, which can spread and cause significant damage if not properly treated.
• Rust Present: If you notice any rust spots within or around the stone chip, DIY repair is not advised. Rust needs to be professionally removed and treated before any paintwork is done to prevent it from spreading.
• Multiple or Large Chips: Dealing with numerous stone chips or larger areas of damage is best left to professionals. They have the tools, expertise, and color-matching technology to ensure a seamless and durable repair across a larger area.
• Desire for a Flawless Finish: For those seeking a factory-finish repair that is virtually invisible, professional services are the way to go. Professionals have the skills and equipment to blend the repair seamlessly with the surrounding paintwork.
• Maintaining Vehicle Value: If you’re concerned about maintaining your car’s resale value, professional stone chip repair is a worthwhile investment. It ensures the damage is properly fixed and doesn’t detract from the car’s overall condition.

Step-by-Step Guide to DIY Stone Chip Repair

If you’ve assessed your stone chip and determined that a DIY repair is appropriate, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the best possible results:

What You’ll Need:

• Car Wash Soap and Water: For cleaning the area.
• Rubbing Alcohol or White Spirit: To remove grease and ensure proper paint adhesion.
• Touch-Up Paint Kit: Matching your car’s paint code. This usually includes primer, color paint, and clear coat.
• Fine-Tipped Brushes or Applicator Pens: For precise paint application.
• Cutting Compound (like T-Cut) or Fine-Grit Wet and Dry Sandpaper (2000-3000 grit): To level raised edges.
• Masking Tape (Optional): To protect surrounding paintwork.
• Polishing Compound: To blend the repair and restore shine.
• Soft Microfiber Cloths: For cleaning and polishing.

Steps:

1. Clean the Area: Thoroughly wash the area around the stone chip with soap and water. Rinse and dry completely. Then, use rubbing alcohol or white spirit on a clean microfiber cloth to wipe the chip and surrounding area. This removes any wax, grease, or contaminants that could prevent the touch-up paint from adhering properly. Allow it to dry fully.

2. Prepare the Chip: Inspect the chip for any loose paint flakes or raised edges. If there are any, carefully use a cutting compound like T-Cut applied with a microfiber cloth, or very fine-grit wet and dry sandpaper (used very gently and preferably wet) to lightly level them. Be extremely cautious not to scratch the surrounding clear coat. If using sandpaper, wrap it around a small, flat object like the end of a pencil to focus the sanding on the raised edges only.

3. Apply Primer (If Included in Kit): If your touch-up kit includes a primer, apply a very thin layer of primer to the chip using a fine-tipped brush or applicator pen. Confine the primer only to the chipped area. Allow it to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Primer helps the color paint adhere better, especially to bare metal.

4. Apply Color Paint in Thin Layers: Shake the touch-up paint bottle well. Apply the color paint in very thin layers to the chip, using a fine brush or applicator. The goal is to gradually build up the paint level to match the surrounding paint. Apply just enough paint to fill the chip, avoiding applying paint to the surrounding undamaged area. Allow each layer to dry completely before applying the next. Multiple thin layers are better than one thick layer, as they reduce the risk of runs and ensure proper drying and curing.

5. Level the Paint (If Necessary): Once the final layer of color paint is completely dry, check if the touch-up paint is level with the surrounding paintwork. If it’s slightly raised, you can carefully level it using fine-grit wet and dry sandpaper. Wet the sandpaper and gently sand the touch-up paint, keeping it focused on the repaired area. Check frequently to avoid sanding too much. Alternatively, a cutting compound can sometimes be used instead of sandpaper for minor leveling.

6. Apply Clear Coat (If Included in Kit): If your kit includes a clear coat, apply a thin layer over the touch-up paint, again using a fine brush or applicator. This seals the color paint and provides a protective layer with a glossy finish, mimicking the original car paint. Allow it to dry thoroughly.

7. Polish and Blend: After the clear coat is completely dry, use a polishing compound on a clean microfiber cloth to gently polish the repaired area. This helps to blend the edges of the touch-up paint with the surrounding original paintwork and restore the shine. Work in small circular motions and buff until the repair is smooth and blended.

While DIY touch-up can improve the appearance of stone chips, it’s important to manage expectations. Achieving a truly invisible repair at home can be challenging, especially for larger or more complex chips.

How Much Does Professional Stone Chip Repair Cost?

The cost of professional stone chip repair varies depending on several factors, including:

• Number and Size of Chips: More chips and larger areas of damage will naturally increase the cost.
• Severity of Damage: Chips that have exposed metal or have rust will require more extensive preparation and repair work, affecting the price.
• Type of Car and Paint: Some car makes and models, as well as specialized or complex paint finishes (like metallic or pearlescent), may incur higher repair costs due to the complexity of color matching and paint application.
• Repair Method Used: Standard stone chip repair versus more advanced techniques like SMART repair can influence the price.
• Location and Service Provider: Labor costs vary geographically, and prices can differ between independent body shops and larger repair chains.

Typical Cost Range:

For minor stone chip repair, you might expect to pay anywhere from £50 to £200. For more extensive damage or if SMART repair techniques are used, the cost could be higher.

SMART Repair for Stone Chips:

SMART (Small to Medium Area Repair Technology) repair is a specialized technique that focuses on repairing only the damaged area rather than respraying an entire panel. This method is often more cost-effective and quicker than traditional body shop repairs for stone chips and minor damage. Professionals using SMART repair techniques can precisely color-match the paint to your car’s exact shade using advanced technology, ensuring a seamless blend and a less noticeable repair compared to DIY kits or cheaper, generic paint matches.

Benefits of Professional Repair Cost:

While DIY kits are cheaper upfront, professional repair offers several advantages that can justify the cost:

• Expert Color Matching: Professionals use advanced color-matching technology to perfectly blend the repair with your car’s original paint, resulting in a virtually invisible finish.
• Durable and High-Quality Finish: Professional repairs utilize high-quality paints and clear coats, ensuring a durable and long-lasting repair that protects against future damage and weather elements.
• Rust Prevention: Professionals properly treat rust and corrosion, preventing these issues from spreading and causing further damage.
• Convenience and Time-Saving: Professional services save you time and effort, and often offer mobile repair options, bringing the service to your home or workplace.
• Warranty and Guarantee: Reputable professional repair services often provide warranties on their work, giving you peace of mind.

Stone Chip Repair FAQs

Can a Stone Chip Repair Be Perfect?

While significant improvements can be made, achieving a 100% perfect, invisible repair, especially with DIY methods, can be challenging. Professional repairs come closer to perfection but even they might be subtly detectable upon close inspection in certain lighting conditions. The goal is to make the chip significantly less noticeable and protect the car from further damage, which is highly achievable.

How Do You Touch Up Stone Chips on a Car?

Refer to the step-by-step DIY guide provided earlier in this article. Remember patience, using the correct matching paint, and applying thin layers are key to a better DIY touch-up.

Can WD-40 Remove Car Scratches?

No, WD-40 is not designed to remove car scratches. While it might temporarily mask very minor surface scratches by adding a glossy sheen, it does not repair or remove the damage. For actual scratch removal, use dedicated car scratch removers or polishes. WD-40 is primarily a lubricant and water displacer, not a paintwork repair product.

Is It Worth Getting Stone Chips Repaired?

Yes, repairing stone chips is generally worth it for several reasons:

• Prevents Rust: Crucially, it prevents rust and corrosion by sealing exposed metal.
• Maintains Value: It helps maintain your car’s resale value by keeping the exterior in good condition.
• Improves Appearance: It significantly enhances your car’s aesthetic appeal, making it look cleaner and better maintained.
• Prevents Further Damage: Addressing chips early stops them from potentially worsening due to weather and general wear.

Are Stone Chips on Cars Common?

Yes, unfortunately, stone chips are very common. Everyday driving, especially on roads with loose gravel or in winter conditions, exposes your car to debris that causes these chips. Certain areas of the car, like the front bumper, bonnet, and lower door panels, are particularly prone to stone chips.

Can You Spray Over Stone Chips?

No, simply spraying over stone chips without proper preparation will not fix them. You’ll still see indentations and the repair will look uneven. Stone chips need to be filled and leveled before any new paint is applied to achieve a smooth finish.

Why Does My Car Keep Getting Stone Chips?

Stone chips are a result of driving conditions and road debris. While unavoidable in many cases, you can minimize them by:

• Avoiding Gravel Roads: Reduce driving on unpaved or gravel roads where loose stones are abundant.
• Maintaining Distance: Keep a safe distance from vehicles in front of you, especially trucks and construction vehicles that are more likely to kick up debris.
• Using Mud Flaps: Mud flaps behind your wheels can help deflect stones and debris away from your car’s body.
• Consider Paint Protection Film (PPF): For maximum protection in chip-prone areas, consider applying paint protection film to vulnerable areas like the bonnet and bumper.

What is the Best Protection for Stone Chips?

The most effective protection against stone chips is Paint Protection Film (PPF). This is a transparent, durable film professionally applied to your car’s paint. It acts as a sacrificial layer, absorbing impacts from stones and debris and preventing them from reaching your car’s actual paintwork. While PPF is the most expensive option, it offers the best level of protection.

Other less expensive protective measures include:

• Spray-on Paint Sealants: Products like Supagard create a protective layer over the paint, offering some resistance to chips and scratches.
• Regular Waxing and Sealing: Applying car wax and sealant regularly helps create a barrier on your paint, offering a degree of protection against minor chips and scratches. This is the most affordable DIY approach to paint protection.

Considering stone chip repair? ChipsAway specialists are experts in car scratch removal and stone chip repair. With mobile repair services, they can come to you for convenient and professional repairs. Get a free, no-obligation repair estimate online today! or call us to discuss your repair options.