As fall begins now is a great time to take a closer look at your vehicle. With all the road construction and road debris, you may notice the your vehicle has picked up a few stone chips and scratches, keeping your car or truck longer us a trends that make good financial sense.

Learning how to fix those rock chips, scratches and nicks is a one good way to maintain your vehicle’s value and appearance and keep small damage from growing into a bigger problem.

These types of small cosmetic repairs don’t have to require a costly trip to the body shop.

By using the right tools and techniques you can get rid of nicks and scratches in your own garage. The key is to use the proper touch up paints with the OEM colors.

Cracking the Color Code

The key to the perfect color match is contained in the vehicle’s color code. The trick is finding it, it is located in a number of places, the inside of the door being the most common.

What Products for What Project?

There is an online resource that can guide you through the whole process. From easy-to-use touch up pens to small bottles (like nail polish bottles) getting the right tools will make the job easier.

Can You Do It Yourself?

Yes you can. If you’ve every built a model, painted crafts and have the patience; you will be very proud of your efforts.

Helpful Tips

• Practice using touch up paint before applying, to get a feel for the paint and to check the color match. Use a glossy sheet of paper or metal can as a practice surface.
• Apply in an area with adequate ventilation.
• Use several light coats rather than one heavy coat.
• Do not wax for 30 days.

Learn more at: AutomotiveTouchup 1.888.710.5192 or visit AutomotiveTouchup.com 

Lauren Fix, The Car Coach® is a nationally recognized automotive expert, media guest, journalist, author, keynote speaker and television host. Post your comments on Twitter: @LaurenFix or on her Facebook Page. To read more of her blogs, CLICK HERE NOW.