How to Repair Peeling Clear Coat

Peeling clear coat is not a pretty site. Many things can cause clear coat to peel, such as poor paint materials, poor preparation, and ultraviolet rays from the sun. This is a serious problem not only for aesthetic reasons but because this issue can lead to rust. The best way to repair this is to strip the entire affected panel and repaint however; there is a temporary fix that can last over a year.

1. Scuff the car. Use either a red scuff pad or 400 grit sandpaper to lightly scuff the affected panel removing the clear coat. Be careful not to cut into the base coat.
2. Scuff again. This time use a gray scuff pat or 1000 grit sandpaper to remove the scratches left by the first step. A smooth surface is a must.
3. Protect the car. Protect the areas around the affected panel by using masking tape and clear coat to ensure the areas are completely covered.
4. Spray clear coat. Holding the can about 10 to 12 inches from the car, spray a thin even coat of clear coat starting at the top and working towards the bottom. Apply 3 to 4 coats allowing each coat to dry for about 30 minutes.