Missed a spot? Got a sagging clear coat? Paint flaws happen, but fixing them before you recoat is what separates a clean finish from a do-over. If you're diving into a respray, correcting surface issues is the step that keeps your final layer looking sharp.
In this blog, we'll walk you through how to fix your car paint before repainting so your final finish looks as smooth as possible. You'll learn what to watch for, correct issues, and prep your surface like a pro. Read on!
Common Paint Imperfections That Must Be Corrected
Paint problems come in all forms, and each one needs a different fix. Here are the most common imperfections to watch for:
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Dust nibs – tiny particles trapped in the paint
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Orange peel – uneven surface texture resembling the skin of an orange
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Runs or sags – overly thick paint that drips or droops during application
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Fisheyes – small crater-like defects caused by contamination
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Solvent pop – tiny pinholes from trapped solvent gas
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Edge mapping – visible feather lines from improper sanding or masking
Each imperfection should be identified and corrected based on its root cause, not just its appearance. This ensures the problem doesn't return once you recoat.
How to Fix Surface Flaws Before Repainting
Fixing paint defects takes more than just sanding them out. Here's how to do it right:
1) Surface Evaluation Before Correction
Let the paint fully cure before checking for problems. Depending on the paint system, that might mean waiting a few hours or overnight. Use bright lighting from multiple angles to find any surface flaws, and wipe down the panel with a clean microfiber to remove dust before inspecting. Feel the surface with a gloved hand to catch anything your eyes miss.
2) Sanding Imperfections the Right Way
For light texture issues like dust nibs or mild orange peel, wet sanding with 1500 or 2000-grit sandpaper works well. Always keep the area wet to avoid clogging or scratching the surface. For deeper defects like runs or sags, step down to 1000–1200 grit and carefully feather out the flaw. Use a sanding block or foam pad to keep even pressure and avoid creating dips.
3) Dealing With Contaminated or Rejected Areas
If you see fisheyes, oil spots, or signs of delamination, you'll need to take a few more steps. Strip the paint if the defect cuts through multiple layers. Then, clean thoroughly with wax and grease remover. If necessary, apply a new primer coat before recoating. Repainting over contaminated areas without treating them will only cause more problems later.
4) Rebuilding Damaged Layers
If you sand down to the primer, you'll need to reapply the primer and let it flash and cure properly. Sand it again with 600–800 grit before laying down a fresh basecoat. If the clear coat was removed during sanding, you can sometimes spot blend, but a full panel respray usually gives better results. Make sure to scuff the surrounding paint so everything bonds evenly.
5) Surface Cleaning Before Recoating
After all sanding is complete, clean the area thoroughly. Blow out crevices with compressed air, wipe the surface with a tack cloth, and finish with a wax and grease remover to eliminate any residue. Avoid touching the panel with bare hands—skin oils can undo all your prep work and compromise adhesion.
Get a Smooth Finish With Auto Paint HQ
At Auto Paint HQ, we know a flawless finish depends on great prep. That's why we offer everything you need to fix car paint before repainting—from sanding products and surface cleaners to premium-grade basecoats and clear coats that lay down smoothly over a corrected surface. Explore our automotive paint solutions and take the guesswork out of the job.