Stone-chip paint repair

What is stone chipping and where does it happen?

Stone chipping is small paint damage caused by pebbles or gravel thrown up from the road surface and hitting the car body. The most common locations are the front of the bonnet, the front bumper, the door mirrors and the front doors. Damage can range from barely visible sub-millimetre points to clearly visible 5–10 mm spots with exposed metal or primer at the bottom. The winter season is worst because of road grit and gravel, but in summer pebbles and stones thrown by vehicles ahead can also do serious damage — especially on motorways.

Why does stone-chip damage need quick repair?

Even small paint damage opens a direct path for moisture and salt down to the metal. Within just a few weeks surface rust starts to form, and within 6–12 months the rust can spread underneath intact paint and lift it from the metal. This secondary spread is what costs the most — once rust has crept under the paint, much larger areas have to be sanded back and rebuilt. With early repair within 1–2 months of damage, the probability of a perfect result is significantly higher and the cost many times lower.

Touch-up — for the smallest damage

For very small points under about 5 mm in diameter, with no visible rust and intact primer below, a simple touch-up with a colour pen plus clear coat may be enough. We use the original colour code from the car's VIN plate and fill the damage in 2–3 thin layers to build up to the correct level. After cure the area is gently polished so the transition to the surrounding paint is as inconspicuous as possible. Touch-up typically costs 500–1,200 NOK per damage and can often be done while you wait.

Spot work — for larger stone-chip damage

Once damage exceeds about 5 mm, has spread over an area or has gone down to bare metal with rust starting, touch-up no longer holds. We then use smart-repair spot painting: the area is sanded clean, any rust is removed mechanically, primer is applied, and base coat + clear coat are built up in a confined zone that is polished out into the existing paint. Common areas are the bonnet front with 8–15 scattered hits, and the top of the front bumper.

Prevention — PPF and ceramic coating

If your car spends a lot of time on motorways or in chip-prone terrain, it can be worth considering PPF (Paint Protection Film) on the front of the bonnet and on mirrors — a transparent film that takes the damage in place of the paint. Alternatively, ceramic coating can provide a harder surface layer that reduces damage somewhat. We are happy to advise on what suits your driving pattern and budget — call us on 41 17 32 24.

Book paintwork online or call us on 41 17 32 24.