The Art of Quality Paint Chip Repair
Recently, I had the chance to work on a BMW at Santa Monica BMW, showcasing why attention to detail matters in paint chip repair. As someone who’s been in this business 25 years, I’ve seen how rushed jobs can leave cars looking less than their best.
Many dealerships, due to time constraints, opt for quick fixes when it comes to paint touch-ups. While this gets cars on the lot faster, it often falls short of what your car deserves. That’s where I come in.
The BMW I worked on had some pretty noticeable scratches. Not super deep, but definitely enough to make a potential buyer think twice. Here’s how I tackled it:
- Started with careful wet sanding
- Applied a specialized clear coat
- Used a tiny brush (we’re talking half a millimeter wide) for precise touch-ups
Let’s bust a myth while we’re at it: the “fingernail test” for scratches isn’t always reliable. Sometimes you can feel a scratch that’s fixable, and sometimes you can’t feel one that isn’t. Each scratch is unique and needs a trained eye to assess.
Many quick-fix methods might cover a scratch temporarily, but they often don’t last past the first car wash. You end up with a dull line where the scratch was – not exactly what you want on your shiny car.
My goal is to make repairs that are nearly invisible and long-lasting. It takes more time and skill, but the results speak for themselves. Whether you’re looking to sell your car or just want to keep it looking great, quality repair makes a real difference.
If you love your car, why settle for less? A proper paint touch-up doesn’t just cover up damage – it restores your car’s beauty. And isn’t that what we all want for our beloved rides?
To see a video of my process and what the car looked like before and after – take a look.
If you’d like me to take a look at the damage on your car, please send pics to my cell. 714-766-0464.
Or if you’d like me to work on your car, please visit my website.
About the Author:
Steve, a true master craftsman, is the founder of PaintCraft and has dedicated over 22 years to perfecting the art of automotive paint repair. With a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art and a Master’s in Business Administration, he brings an unparalleled combination of artistic finesse and professional expertise to every project.
Recognized as “the best touch-up guy in the country” by the Porsche Club of America and lauded by the VP of Mazda North America, Steve’s skilled hands have restored over 90,000 vehicles. His clientele spans from prestigious car dealerships across Orange and Los Angeles Counties to discerning individual car owners, elite car collectors, and renowned automotive museums.
Steve’s mastery has been sought after for some of the world’s most expensive and rarest automobiles, testament to his exceptional skill and trustworthiness. Whether it’s a cherished family car or a multi-million dollar collector’s item, Steve approaches each vehicle with the same level of dedication and precision.
His unique blend of artistic vision, technical prowess, and deep understanding of automotive aesthetics ensures that every vehicle he touches is meticulously restored to beyond showroom quality. Steve’s work doesn’t just repair; it elevates each car to its highest potential.
