Micro-scratches, superficial scratches, bumps or holes are not inevitable. Depending on your skill level, you can repair most minor knocks to your vehicle yourself.
Superficial scratches, child’s play
A so-called superficial scratch does not pass through the paintwork of your bodywork. If only the varnish is affected, it is not too late to take care of it. These micro-scratches can be seen in direct sunlight, but you don’t feel them to the touch. We will use a scratch remover paste. It is a resin composed of smoothing micro balls.
They will polish the scratch to reduce the angle of reflection in the light. Once smoothed, the micro scratch becomes invisible. Very effective but with limits. Larger scratches cannot be treated. The treatment will be completed with a protective wax or a ceramic-type protective treatment.
Repair a dent without a bodybuilder
In the event of a bump on the bodywork following an impact, nothing is lost. You will have to be patient and meticulous, but you can avoid the garage space. We will use the suction cup, used by professionals also in bodywork. The aim is to exert pressure on the bump, in order to regain the initial shape of the bodywork.
The suction cup with a diameter of 75 mm is sufficient for most small repairs. We just place it in the middle of the area to be straightened. Pressure is applied to the suction cup for optimum adhesion. Then we pull on it to restore the bodywork element to its original shape.
Rims like new
Over time, the rims are the elements that are most exposed to shocks, paint chips and lose their shine. However, it is easy to restore them to their new shine. We will start by cleaning the rims with a degreaser and a high-pressure jet. Then, the sanding phase will be the longest and most painful.
It is also essential. We come to rub by hand or with a sander. After a new cleaning, we will be able to start the painting phase. The ideal is to paint all four rims at the same time. If the tires are still on the rims, we will use masking tape to protect them. After each coat, we will sand off any excess paint.
It will take at least three coats of paint and two coats of varnish. Paint and varnish bombs can be found in the DIY department or at a car centre. For less than 40€ you can restore the shine to your rims.
A chip on the bodywork
A simple chip of paint can quickly become a nest of corrosion and spread. After careful cleaning of the area to be treated, a very small drop of paint will be placed in the hole. Some fine point paint pens may do the trick. Use as little paint as possible. After drying, observe the result and varnish if necessary.
This solution will never be perfect, but it allows you to repair a chip without having to redo the whole panel. It also prevents corrosion from spreading. Obviously this is a preferred solution on an already old vehicle. Finally, be aware that bodywork is a real profession with unique know-how. The result will always be better with a professional.