How to Buff Out Touch-Up Paint

When there are only a few nicks in the paint, instead of repainting the entire car, touch it up. Touch-up kits come with supplies and instructions on how to fill in small chips with paint. The problem some automobile owners confront, is how to buff out the touch-up paint once it is applied. Depending on the color of the paint, and the size of the damage, there are a few procedures that work best.

Things You'll Need

• Sanding block
• 600, 1000, 1500 grit sandpaper
• Paint polish
• Hand glaze
• Clean white towels

Instructions

1. Buff out the touch-up paint on the car with a 600 grit sanding block. You can purchase a sanding block at any auto retailer store.

2. Use circular motions to smooth out uneven touch-up paint. Carefully buff out only the area of the touch-up paint to avoid damaging the car's finish.

3. Switch to a 1000 grit sand block, then move to a 1500 grit sand block. The higher the grit, the finer the sand.

4. Apply a pro-grade, silicone-free paint polish, which can found at any auto retailer. Rub the area by hand with a clean white towel. Use circular motions until the touch-up paint is smooth and shiny.

5. Apply a hand glaze as the final step. Lightly rub the area with a clean white towel until it is glossy.

Tips & Warnings

• Sanding paint touch-up with a drizzle of water lubricates the sandpaper and washes away the excess grit.

• Never use a rubbing compound to buff out touch-up paint. Do not use any type of wax on a freshly painted car.