Painting your car is a great way to give it an updated look, but if you don’t use the right techniques and materials, your paint job could end up with serious problems. Fisheye and bubbling paint can leave unsightly bumps and protrusions on your vehicle’s body that detract from its appearance.
Fortunately, these issues are relatively easy to fix. Let’s look at how to fix fisheye and bubbling paint on your car, as well as how to avoid these problems in the future.
Assess the Damage
The first step in fixing fisheye and bubbling paint is to assess the damage. There are five main ways to identify fisheye damage, which include looking for the following:
- Small circular or oval spots
- A crater-like appearance in the paint
- Dull, crinkly patches on the surface
- Glossy areas that don’t have paint adhesion
- Uneven texture in certain areas
To identify bubbling paint, look for small bubbles or blisters on the surface of the car’s body. Both types of damage can occur due to various factors, including air pockets or contaminants in the paint job, moisture trapped underneath the coating, improper surface sanding before painting, or using incompatible components in the paint mixture.
Clean Off the Problem Areas
Once you’ve identified the fisheye and bubbling paint areas, it’s time to clean them off. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently rub the affected area in a circular motion until you remove all imperfections. If necessary, you may want to use a mild abrasive compound, such as rubbing alcohol or acetone, to help remove the residue.
Be careful during this process, as you don’t want to damage the rest of the paint job. Take your time and work slowly until all the imperfections are gone.
Apply Primer
Once you clean the problem areas, you’ll want to apply a primer. Primer helps provide a smoother surface for painting and protection against corrosion. It also helps to ensure that the paint adheres properly and doesn’t experience further damage during the painting process.
Always use a compatible primer with the type of paint that you’re using. Apply the primer in thin, even coats and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Use Bondo
Once the primer is dry, you may need to use Bondo. Bondo is a putty-like substance that can fill in any dents, divots, or other imperfections on the surface of your car. Use a putty knife to spread a thin layer of Bondo over the problem areas and allow it to dry before sanding it to a smooth finish.
You may need to repeat this process several times to achieve the desired results. Just make sure you allow enough time for each layer of Bondo to dry before sanding it down and applying another layer.
Sand Down the Area
Once the Bondo is dry and smooth, sand down the entire area. Use fine-grit sandpaper to gently smooth out any remaining bumps or imperfections on the surface of your car. Work slowly and carefully so that you don’t damage other areas of the paint job.
Repaint the Area
After sanding, it’s time to repaint. Use a paint that’s compatible with the other elements used on your car and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to mix and apply the paint properly. Pay attention to any drying times specified on the container and allow your work plenty of time to dry before moving on to the next step.
Apply a Clear Coat
Applying a clear coat is the final step in fixing fisheye and bubbling paint. Car clear coats help protect the paint from scratches, UV damage, and other hazards while providing an extra layer of shine. Ensure you carefully follow the instructions on the container when applying the clear coat and allow it plenty of time to dry before driving your car.
Ways To Prevent Fisheye and Bubbling Paint
Now that you know how to fix fisheye and bubbling paint on your car, let’s look at ways to prevent these issues from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips to help keep your paint job looking its best.
Clean the Surface Before Painting
It’s crucial to clean the surface of your car before painting to ensure that the paint adheres properly. If the surface is dirty, there’s a higher chance of fisheye and bubbling. Use a high-quality wax and grease remover to clean the surface thoroughly. Be sure to remove any sanding dust, which can cause fisheye if not cleared away.
Use the Correct Paint and Primer
Using the correct paint and primer for your car is essential to prevent fisheye and bubbling. Low-quality paints and primers are more prone to these issues, so investing in high-quality products is important. Research different brands and read reviews to find the right product for your vehicle.
Control the Temperature and Humidity
Painting in the right conditions is imperative to prevent fisheye and bubbling. High humidity and extreme temperatures can cause paint to bubble and fisheye. The ideal temperature range for painting is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and humidity should be between 40 and 70 percent. If it’s too hot or humid, wait for better conditions before painting—the last thing you want is to have to redo the entire job.
Use a Paint Additive
A paint additive can help prevent fisheye and bubbling by altering the surface tension of the paint. This additive can help the paint adhere to the vehicle’s surface and create a smooth finish. There are several different types of paint additives, so choosing one compatible with your paint and primer is of the utmost importance.
By following these steps, you can easily fix fisheye and bubbling paint on your car. Remember to use compatible materials, practice patience during the repair process, and take all necessary safety precautions when working with substances like Bondo or paint. With all of this in mind, you’ll be able to get your car looking like new in no time.
Eagle National Supply has all the supplies and tools you need to fix fisheye and bubbling paint on your car, including sandpaper, primer, paint, and clear coats. Visit our website today to browse our vast selection.
