Quick Fix For Auto Base Coat Blemishes

Fixing a blemish in an auto base coat can be a tedious task, and there are a few factors to consider before attempting to do so. Firstly, it is important to identify the source of the blemish and assess the severity of the damage. If the issue is simply imperfections in the substrate or application of the base coat, sanding or wet coating can help fix the issue. However, if the blemish is due to improper paint jobs, clear coat peeling, or other deep-seated issues, more extensive repairs may be necessary.

Before attempting any repairs, it is crucial to clean the impacted area thoroughly and inspect the damage to determine the appropriate course of action. This step ensures that any underlying issues are addressed and prevents further complications. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the entire clear coat and start over with a new application.

When dealing with peeling clear coats, it is important to note that there is no easy fix. While there are temporary solutions such as coating the affected area or polishing the panel, these will not address the root cause of the problem. The only way to truly fix a peeling clear coat is to reapply it correctly, ensuring proper surface preparation and following the manufacturer's instructions for application.

In conclusion, fixing a blemish in an auto base coat requires careful assessment, thorough cleaning, and, in some cases, extensive repair work. It is important to understand the cause of the issue and take the necessary steps to prevent further damage.

Sanding the area with a fine-grit, non-woven scratch pad

Sanding is an important step in the process of fixing blemishes in an auto base coat. It helps to remove imperfections and create a smooth surface for the new coat of paint to be applied. When sanding the affected area, it is important to use a fine-grit, non-woven scratch pad. Here are some detailed instructions on how to sand the area effectively:

First, make sure you have the right tools for the job. In this case, you will need a fine-grit, non-woven scratch pad, which can be purchased from your local auto supply store. These scratch pads are typically grey in colour. It is also recommended to wear protective gear, such as a ventilated mask and nylon gloves, to avoid inhaling fumes and to protect your hands during the process.

Next, prepare the area for sanding. Block off the section to be repaired with masking tape, placing it 5 to 6 inches (13 to 15 cm) beyond the parts of the panel that need to be sanded. This will protect the rest of the car from any damage during the sanding process. Place small pieces of tape in the gaps between the car's panels and press down firmly to secure the tape.

Now you are ready to start sanding! Using firm but even pressure, sand the affected area with the fine-grit, non-woven scratch pad. Sand past the affected area and into the unaffected area by about 5 to 6 inches (13 to 15 cm). This will create a blending section that will help you achieve a smooth finish when applying the new coat. Make sure to sand the edges and corners of the affected section thoroughly. Continue sanding until the old coat is removed and the area looks dull and smooth.

Once you are finished sanding, it is important to clean the area to remove any dust or debris. Wet a soft sponge with water and wipe down the sanded section. Then, dry the area thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.

By following these steps and using a fine-grit, non-woven scratch pad, you can effectively sand the affected area and create a smooth base for the new coat of paint.

Applying a new clear coat

Before applying a new clear coat, you must prepare the surface of your car. Start by washing the area that needs to be repaired with soapy water. Once the area is clean, block off the section to be repaired with masking tape. This will protect the surrounding areas of your car.

Next, sand the area with a fine-grit, non-woven scratch pad. Sand past the affected area and into the unaffected area, which will be the blending section. This will ensure that you can blend the new clear coat with the old one. After sanding, rinse and dry the area to remove any dust and debris.

Now, it's time to apply the new clear coat. Park your car in a well-ventilated area and cover the windows and other areas of the car with newspaper to protect them from the clear coat. Wear a ventilated mask and nylon gloves for your safety.

Activate your 2K clear coat aerosol can by shaking it and attaching the cap to the bottom. Hold the can 8 inches away from the surface and start moving the can before you start spraying. Spray the clear coat in one even direction, moving at a medium speed. Apply 3 coats of clear coat, letting it dry for 10 minutes between each coat.

After the final coat, let the clear coat dry for 2 to 3 hours before removing the tape and newspaper. Wait at least 48 hours before blending the clear coat. Clean the blending area with water and gently sand it with 1500-grit sandpaper to reduce the clear coat line. Finally, polish the area with a medium-grit rubbing compound until your car shines like new!

Blending the new clear coat with the old one

Blending a new clear coat with an old one can be a tricky process and requires a lot of precision and patience. Here are some detailed steps to help you achieve a seamless blend:

Preparation:

• Sand the area: Start by sanding the area that needs to be repaired. Use 800-grit sandpaper to level the surface and remove any flaws or scratches. Make sure to use a small block or a sanding sponge to avoid creating finger dents. You can also use a grey scotch pad or blending paste for this step.
• Masking: Tape off the area to avoid over-spray onto other parts of the car. Use reverse masking, which involves pulling the tape back to expose the repair area, creating a soft edge that can be cut and buffed without leaving a line from the masking tape.
• Base coat application: Apply the base coat to the repaired area, making sure to keep any over-spray from getting on the surrounding area where you will be blending the clear coat. Allow the base coat to dry completely.

Blending the Clear Coat:

• First coat of clear: Spray the first coat of clear coat over the repaired area, going slightly beyond the base coat. You can use a clear coat blending solvent, such as PPG DX840 Universal Blender, for this step.
• Second coat: Apply a second coat of clear, extending it further towards the old clear coat. You can also add a small amount of reducer to the clear coat to help soften the edge between the new and old clear.
• Third coat: For the third coat, spray the clear coat up to the edge of the sanded area, making sure to cover the entire sanded line.
• Blending solvent: After the third coat, empty your spray gun and pour in a small amount of blending solvent. Apply a very thin mist coat over the blend line. This will help soften the edge and create a seamless transition between the new and old clear coats.
• Curing: Allow the clear coat to cure completely. This may take a few days, depending on the product. You can use a heat lamp to speed up the curing process.

Finishing:

• Sanding: Once the clear coat is cured, lightly sand the repair area using 1500-grit sandpaper on a soft block to remove any nibs or rough spots.
• Compounding: Use a compound such as 3M 6085 or Norton Liquid Ice to buff the repair area and blend it with the surrounding clear coat. It is recommended to use a smaller, three-inch buffing pad for better control along the blend line.
• Polishing: Finally, polish the area to a high gloss, removing any remaining imperfections and creating a seamless finish.

Remember that practice makes perfect, and it may take a few attempts to master the technique of blending a new clear coat with an old one. It is always a good idea to practice on a test panel before attempting a repair on your car.

Using a clay bar treatment

Clay bar treatment is a crucial step in the car detailing process and should be done before any body shop work such as paint correction, waxing, sealing, or ceramic coating. It is an effective way to remove contaminants like dirt, bugs, sap, and water spots from the car's clear coat. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to perform a clay bar treatment:

Step 1: Wash Your Car

Begin by giving your car a thorough hand wash to remove any existing wax and surface contaminants. Make sure to dry the car completely with a clean microfiber towel. It is important to never clay a dry car, as it can cause the clay bar to stick to the paint and cause damage.

Step 2: Prepare the Clay Bar

Take the clay bar out of its package and break off half of it. Return the other half to the package or a sealed bag to prevent it from drying out. Knead and shape the clay bar into a flat oval shape that is large enough to cover your fingers. This will make it easier to hold and manoeuvre during the treatment.

Step 3: Use Clay Lubricant

Spray a small area of your car generously with a clay lubricant. This will help the clay bar glide smoothly across the surface and prevent scratches. Start with a cleaner surface, such as the roof or hood, and work your way towards the more contaminated areas.

Step 4: Treat the Surface

Using gentle, back-and-forth motions, glide the clay bar across the lubricated area. Do not use circular motions, as they can make your car more susceptible to scratches. You will feel the clay bar picking up contaminants as it pulls them out of the clear coat.

Step 5: Switch Sides

Once the clay bar has picked up contaminants, knead it to reveal a clean side and continue treating the surface. As the clay bar becomes saturated with contaminants, it will start to appear dirty. Keep switching to a clean side as needed.

Step 6: Inspect Your Work

After treating an area, put the clay bar in a safe place and use a clean microfiber towel to wipe away any residual lubricant. Use a plastic bag to test the surface for smoothness. If you still feel bumps, continue claying the area until it is smooth. Repeat this process, working in small sections, until the entire car is treated.

Step 7: Protect the Paint

Always follow the clay bar treatment with a protective layer such as wax, sealant, or ceramic coating. The clay bar removes the clear coat, leaving the paint bare and unprotected. Applying a protective layer will prevent new contaminants from bonding with the clear coat and maintain the shine of your car.

Paint correction

• Wash and dry the vehicle: Start by giving your car a thorough wash to remove any dirt, dust, or grime. This will help you assess the extent of the damage and ensure that any contaminants are removed before starting the correction process.
• Inspect the damage: Determine the type and severity of the paint defects. If the clear coat is peeling or has deep scratches, you may need to remove it completely and reapply a new coat.
• Protect your vehicle and yourself: Tape off the areas surrounding the compromised clear coat with painter's tape and newspaper or painter's masking paper. Wear a respirator mask to avoid inhaling any dust or fumes during the sanding and polishing process.
• Remove the damaged clear coat: Use a mid- to low-grade Scotch-Brite Hand Pad or fine-grit sandpaper to gently remove the damaged clear coat. Start with the edges and work your way towards the center. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as you may accidentally remove more clear coat than necessary.
• Apply a new clear coat: Once you have removed the damaged clear coat, wipe the surface with a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water to ensure it is free of any contaminants. Then, apply a new clear coat in thin, even layers, following the manufacturer's instructions. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next one.
• Blend the old and new clear coats: After the new clear coat has cured, use a variable speed polisher or rotary buffer with a microfiber buffing pad and cutting compound to blend the old and new clear coats together. Work in the direction that will help blur the lines between the two coats.

Frequently asked questions