How to Fix Paint Chips Using Automotive Touch-Up Paint
Can Plastic Bumpers Be Repaired?
Yes, plastic bumpers can often be repaired, depending on the extent of the damage. Plastic bumpers are prone to scratches, scuffs, and minor stone chips due to everyday driving hazards like road debris, parking lot mishaps, and weather exposure. Touch-up paint is a cost-effective way to fix small blemishes, making it a quick and affordable solution for minor imperfections. However, deeper damage may require a full repaint or even a replacement bumper to restore the bumper's appearance and durability.
If your bumper is beyond repair, that's where Bumpers.com comes in. We offer painted-to-order bumpers that are professionally finished in standard OEM colors, for the most accurate match possible and a hassle-free solution. Whether you need a fresh look or a full replacement, we've got you covered with high-quality parts at unbeatable prices!
When to Use Touch-Up Paint for Bumper Repairs
Ideal Situations for Paint Touch-Up:
Touch-up paint is a quick and cost-effective solution for:
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Small scratches or paint chips from keys, shopping carts, or minor scrapes
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Stone chips from highway driving or gravel roads
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Minor scuffs caused by light impacts
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Fading or minor blemishes in localized areas
Applying touch-up paint helps protect your bumper from further damage and prevents rust or deterioration.
When Touch-Up Paint Is Not Suitable:
If your bumper has more severe damage, touch-up paint won't fully restore it. You may need a full repaint or a replacement bumper if you notice:
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Deep cracks or gouges in the plastic
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Peeling or flaking paint, which indicates adhesion issues
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Large scrapes or scuffs that cover significant surface areas
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Multiple rock chips clustered in one area
For bigger damage, a painted-to-match replacement bumper is the best solution to restore your vehicle's look. Need a fresh bumper with OEM-quality paint? Check out Bumpers.com for custom-painted replacements shipped to your door!
What You'll Need to Repair Your Bumper
Here's a detailed supply list of what you'll need to repair your car bumper from your home:
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Touch-up paint – Ensure your touch-up paint matches your car's exact paint code. At Bumpers.com, you can easily purchase a touch-up paint bottle, and the best part is you don't need a clear coat—it's a single-stage formula. Not sure about your paint code? Find it here.
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Sandpaper (800–1500 grit) – Helps smooth out scratches and prep the surface.
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Rubbing alcohol or prep cleaner – Removes dirt, grease, and debris before painting.
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Microfiber cloth – Ideal for buffing and polishing the repaired area.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Car Bumper with Touch-Up Paint
Scratches, scruffs, paint chips, and stone chips on your car can be frustrating, but with the right touch-up paint and technique, you can restore your car's appearance at home. Follow these steps to fix minor blemishes and keep your bumper looking fresh!
Step 1 – Prepare the Surface and Clean the Bumper
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Start by cleaning the area with soap and water to clean the scratched area thoroughly.
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Wipe the surface with rubbing alcohol to eliminate dirt, wax, and grease.
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Assess the damage: If the scratch or chip is deep enough to feel with your fingernail, sanding may be necessary.
Step 2 – Sand & Prime (If Necessary)
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If the scratch or chip is deep, use 600-1000 grit sandpaper to smooth rough edges. Wipe away dust with a microfiber cloth.
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If bare plastic or metal is exposed, apply a thin layer of automotive primer and let it dry completely.
Step 3 – Apply the Touch-Up Paint
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Shake the paint well, for an even application.
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Apply the touch-up paint in using light, even strokes,and wait 10-15 minutes between coats. Repeat as needed until the scratch is filled.
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Allow the paint to fully dry before moving to the next step.
If you're looking to buy touch-up paint with a brush or applicator attached to the lid, get Bumpers.com touch up paint bottles here.
Bonus Tip: If you order touch-up paint from Bumpers.com, you can skip Step 4.
Step 4 – Apply a Clear Coat
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Once dry, seal the repair with a clear coat and let it cure for at least 24 hours. This adds shine and protects the touch-up paint.
Bonus Tip: If you order automotive touch-up paint from Bumpers.com, you can skip this step. Our touch-up paint and spray paint are single-stage, meaning the base and clear coat are already mixed for a glossy finish—no extra steps needed, saving you time.
Step 5 – Buff & Blend for a Smooth Finish
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After curing, lightly sand with 2000-grit sandpaper and polish to blend the area. Use a microfiber cloth to buff the surface for a seamless blend. A polishing compound can help match the surrounding paint. And just like that, you're done!
When Touch-Up Paint Isn't Enough: Repainting Your Car Bumper
If your car's plastic bumper has major scratches, chips, or fading, a full repaint is the best way to achieve a clean, factory-finish look. While touch-up paint works for small imperfections, it's not suitable for larger damaged areas, such as multiple stone chips in one area. In these cases, spray paint or a paint gun ensures even coverage and a professional-quality finish.
For large paint chips or full bumper repaints, Bumpers.com offers high-quality spray paint that matches your car's original color. The right paint restores your bumper's appearance and protects it from further wear.
When Is It Time for a Full Bumper Replacement?
If your bumper has deep cracks, missing pieces, or severe paint damage, replacing the bumper may be the best option. While minor scratches and chips can often be repaired with touch-up paint or a full repaint, structural damage or extensive wear can compromise both appearance and safety.
If this takes too much resources, consider a custom-painted replacement bumper from Bumpers.com to allow the professionals to do all the steps for you and deliver the completed product to your door step.
A custom-painted bumper offers several advantages over DIY repainting:
✔ All parts are painted in standard OEM colors for the most accurate match possible.
✔ Saves time and effort compared to prepping and painting it yourself.
✔ No need to worry about paint blending issues or color mismatches.