How To Repair Small Holes In Your Car
Posted on: 17 September 2015
Small chips in your car paint are inevitable. They are usually harmless and hardly visible. However, over time they can lead to more serious problems if the hole starts to rust and corrode. This can lead to the deterioration of the metal. This is why it is very important to fix even the smallest paint chips as soon as you notice them. You can hire a professional, or you can fix the chips on your own if you have the right tools. This article will explain the simple process, so you can always fix holes before they become problematic.
Using Auto Sandpaper
The first thing you will need is auto sandpaper. Auto sandpaper is wet sandpaper, meaning it needs to be moist when sanding a surface. On the ultra-smooth surface of a car, it prevents scratching. It is very easy to just dip the sandpaper in a cup of water to keep it moist while sanding. The point of the sandpaper is too lightly sand off the glossy coat of paint right around the area you are going to patch. This does not need to be a big area, rather just a small perimeter around the hole.
Patching the Hole
At this point, you are ready to patch the hole with autobody filler. If the hole is small (about the size of your fingertip) just patch it by spreading it on with your finger. You should only use a putty knife if you need to cover a large hole or dent. Wear gloves though, because the body filler is very stick and it dries quickly. Use your fingertip to wipe away the excess filler before it dries. After the patch is completely dry you can use the sandpaper to rub it until it matches the texture and shape of the car body.
Painting the Hole
Painting small rock chips is usually the easiest part if you have the right paint. Get factory replacement paint from the dealership to ensure you get the right match. Generic auto paint brands are cheaper, but the results are never as good. You can spread the paint onto the patch with a small paintbrush, or even a cotton swab. Paint sparingly, because you do not want a thick, caked-up finish when it dries. You want the dried paint to be as smooth and flat as possible.
In the end, patching small holes will only take an hour or so. Learning how to handle these repairs will allow you to fix small holes before they start to rust. If you need help, contact an auto body collision repair service.
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