FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
Courtesy of Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Minor Damage Repair

1) Measure the paint thickness with a mil gauge and record the measurements on a sheet of paper. These measurements will help you to track the amount of paint removed.

2) Start buffing the affected areas by using the least aggressive cutting pad and least aggressive cleaner. Repeat this step if necessary. (Remember to re-measure the paint thickness after buffing.)

3) Follow the repair with a fine polish and a fine polishing pad to restore luster and gloss and to remove any swirl marks which may remain on the surface.

4) Spray an alcohol solution (50% water/50% alcohol) on the affected area. This will remove any polish so you can be sure the damage is really repaired, not covered over.

5) Repeat step 3.