Bodywork and paint repairOctober 16, 2026

Stone chip repair explained

Stone chips are small marks where debris has knocked paint off the car, and any that reach bare metal should be repaired before they rust. A touch-up pen can seal a small chip, and a professional repair gives a finish you cannot see.

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Why chips matter

Paint has layers: primer, colour and lacquer. A chip that reaches the metal lets moisture in, and rust then spreads under the surrounding paint. Chips are most common on the bonnet, front bumper, door edges and roof.

Wash the area

and dry it fully, then clean the chip with panel wipe.

Get the right paint

using the paint code, usually on a plate in the door shut or under the bonnet.

Dab, do not brush.

Build the paint up in thin layers inside the chip and let each dry.

Add lacquer

once the colour is level with the surrounding paint.

Frequently asked questions

Do all stone chips need repairing?

Chips that have reached bare metal should be, to prevent rust. Chips that only break the lacquer can wait, but they are easier to fix early.

How long does a repair take?

Minor repairs at our workshop are done within 24 hours. Larger jobs take longer.

Will it match my paint?

We mix the colour from your paint code and finish it with lacquer to match the gloss.

Can you fix chips at my home?

Our mobile team repairs paint chips for private and trade customers. Send your postcode and we will confirm.