If the pigmented paint below the clear coat is still in good shape, don’t scrub so hard that you remove it as well. If the clear coat is already gone, skip this initial sanding and go straight to wet sanding and cleaning.
Straighten out or square off the work area when you can, as this will make it easier to tape off the area later.
Clean the area afterward with the solvent-based cleaner. Skip this step if the paint is already scuffed up from your earlier sanding.
You may be instructed to go over each dried coat with very fine sandpaper (e. g. , 1500 or 2000 grit, possibly soaked with water). Follow the instructions on the spray can, and wipe away dust and debris with a tack cloth.
Remove the tape and plastic sheeting after the last coat dries. Wait several hours, or overnight, before finishing off the repair.
Buff the area by hand if you need or want to, but expect to have a sore arm the next day!
If you can’t find the paint code, you can search by your car’s make, model, and year online or at an auto parts retailer. Or, you can try to match the color by bringing a sample — for instance, the door that covers your gas cap — to a store that carries automotive paints.
If you buy the individual components yourself you’ll need primer, pigment, and clear coat sprays; sandpapers of varying grits (often ranging between 200 and 2000 grit); alcohol and solvent based cleaners; and tack cloths to remove dust and debris. Other items may be required depending on the instructions for the paint products you choose.
When you’re done sanding and cleaning, tape off the prepared area as advised in the kit. Or, use plastic sheeting and masking tape with reduced adhesion (stick it to and peel it from your pants once or twice first).
Use a smooth, steady spraying motion to get even coats of paint. Follow the product instructions regarding spraying distance and technique. Make sure you are spraying in a well-ventilated area.
Allow the final clear coat application to dry overnight before proceeding.
Wear eye protection that will keep out dust and fumes as well. This means goggles, not glasses.
The pros will strip away everything to the bare metal or fiberglass and repaint the entire area. They may be able to repaint a single section, like the hood, or it may be necessary to repaint the entire car. This can cost several thousand U. S. dollars.
