Stone chips are a common feature in car paintwork, usually on the hood, bumper, headlights and fenders. They create small, deep and very localized damage in the paint.
Stone chips occur when debris is kicked up from the road and impacts with the surface of your car. The stone will penetrate into the surface and may expose the metal panel underneath. Leaving this untreated may result in corrosion occurring, which can result in a panel becoming rusted. Depending on the size and quantity of the stone chips on the car the repair process can vary from touchups to complete panel repaint.
Stone chips, while seemingly minor, can compromise the appearance and integrity of your vehicle's paintwork. Often manifesting as small, localized, and deep indentations, these chips typically mar areas like the hood, bumper, headlights, and fenders.
As your vehicle traverses various terrains, it's not uncommon for debris, including tiny stones, to be thrown up from the road. Upon impacting your car's surface, these stones can burrow into the paintwork, often reaching the metal panel beneath.
The penetration and ensuing damage caused by such impacts vary, influenced by the debris's size and velocity. If the stone chip exposes the metal panel, there's a risk of corrosion setting in, leading to rust—a dreaded adversary for any vehicle owner.
Overlooking stone chips might seem innocuous at first, but leaving them untreated can precipitate more severe issues:
Depending on the chip's extent and location, repair strategies can vary:
Rust is particularly problematic for chip repairs because paint struggles to adhere to corroded metal. Addressing rust at its onset is crucial; otherwise, it can proliferate, making subsequent repairs more intricate and costlier.
Stone chips might seem inconsequential, but timely attention can save you from more extensive, cost-intensive repairs down the line. Entrust your vehicle to professionals who can assess the damage and provide the best solution, ensuring your car retains its pristine appearance and structural integrity.
I had an exceptional time taking in my Regal LS to Regal Repair! Alex was very friendly and professional from start to finish.I recently purchased this used car, and someone keyed one side of it. It already had a cracked bumper and scratch on the other side, so I figured what the hell, might as well get the whole thing done.Alex and his team were really thorough and did and fantastic job! See for yourself, I attached pictures below :) I felt his rate was very reasonable considering the turnaround time, and the work required. Highly recommend!
Andrew M . - Oakland, CA
I asked for the estimate with photos before I went to them. After I went there, they looked examined the car and explained thoroughly how the repair process will go. Also, they saved me from the price haggling processes by telling me exactly how each process will cost, which did not deviate from the original estimate. The result was seamless, and Alex, one of the owners, is keeping in touch to make sure that there is no problem with the repaired parts. It is a relatively new place atm in the area. I would recommend you go there before they get too busy or their prices go up.
Benvenutto H. - Glendale, CA
I damaged my new Mercedes when I drove up against a cement wall. I used to be so intimidated when visiting bodyshops, so I wasn't really looking forward to taking my car to get it fixed. But my experience ended up being good. I found Regal Repair through google search and it was probably the only body shop in the area that had a website that seemed trustworthy and had all the information and details I needed to make a choice. They have a very cozy, clean office, but luckily I didn't really have to wait. They fixed my car faster than expected and I was also getting updated with messages throughout the process. Very content with the service!
Anna M. - Burbank, CA