Having a scratch or chip on your beloved Focus RS is a painful sight. But don’t worry, a little car scrape paint repair can have it looking good as new. This guide focuses on using touch up paint specifically for the Focus RS, ensuring a seamless and professional-looking finish.
[image-1|focus-rs-paint-scratch|Close-up of a paint scratch on a Ford Focus RS|A deep, noticeable scratch runs along the driver-side door of a blue Ford Focus RS. The scratch has exposed the metal underneath the paint, highlighting the need for repair.]
Understanding the Importance of Prompt Car Scrape Paint Repair
Leaving a scratch exposed to the elements can lead to rust and corrosion, quickly escalating a simple cosmetic issue into a costly repair. Touch up paint not only restores your Focus RS’s appearance but also protects it from further damage.
Choosing the Right Focus RS Touch Up Paint
Finding the perfect color match is crucial. Refer to your car’s VIN sticker, usually located on the driver’s side door jamb, to identify your exact paint code. Don’t rely on the color name alone, as slight variations can occur between production batches.
[image-2|focus-rs-paint-code-location|Ford Focus RS VIN sticker highlighting the paint code|A close-up image showcases the VIN sticker located on the inside of a car door jamb. A red box highlights the specific area on the sticker containing the factory paint code, essential information for accurate touch-up paint matching.]
Gathering Your Car Scrape Paint Repair Supplies
For a professional finish, you’ll need:
- Touch up paint: Primer, base coat (your color match), and clear coat.
- Sandpaper: Fine-grit (2000+ grit) for blending and smoothing.
- Rubbing compound and polish: For a glossy, showroom finish.
- Masking tape and paper: Protect surrounding areas.
- Applicators: Brushes, toothpicks, or touch-up pens for precision.
- Cleaning supplies: Rubbing alcohol, microfiber cloths.
Prepping the Area for Focus RS Touch Up Paint
- Clean the scratch: Remove dirt and debris with soap and water, then clean the area with rubbing alcohol and let it dry completely.
- Mask off the area: Use masking tape and paper to protect the surrounding paintwork.
- Sand if necessary: For deep scratches, use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the edges. Be gentle and avoid sanding into the surrounding paint.
Applying the Focus RS Touch Up Paint
- Prime (if necessary): If the scratch exposes bare metal, apply a thin coat of primer and allow it to dry completely.
- Apply the base coat: Using a fine-tipped brush or touch-up pen, carefully apply thin layers of your Focus RS base coat color, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next.
- Apply the clear coat (optional): For added protection and shine, apply a thin layer of clear coat once the base coat is dry.
Finishing Touches: Blending and Buffing
- Level the surface: After the paint has cured for at least 24 hours, use fine-grit sandpaper to gently level the repaired area with the surrounding paint.
- Polish to perfection: Apply rubbing compound and polish using a microfiber cloth to achieve a smooth, glossy finish.
[image-3|focus-rs-touch-up-paint-application|Applying touch up paint to a scratch on a Ford Focus RS|A person carefully uses a touch-up paint pen to apply a precise layer of paint onto a small chip on the car’s body. The surrounding area is masked off with tape to protect the existing paint job.]
Professional Car Repair Paint Scratches: When to Seek Expert Help
While DIY touch up paint can effectively address minor scratches, deeper damage or extensive paint issues are best left to the professionals. For a seamless and flawless finish, consider seeking expert help. You can find more information about professional car repair for paint scratches on our website.
Conclusion
Repairing car scrape paint on your Focus RS doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these steps and choosing the right Focus RS touch up paint, you can restore your car’s appearance and protect it from further damage. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to achieving a professional-looking finish.