Does Paint Correction Fix Chips?

What Paint Correction Can and Can't Do for Your Car’s Paint

Paint correction is a popular detailing service that restores your car’s shine by removing swirls, oxidation, and fine scratches—but what about rock chips and deeper blemishes?

If you're in Aurora, Colorado, where road salt and debris are common, you may notice tiny paint chips on your vehicle. Let’s explore whether paint correction can fix those chips—and what your best options are.

What Is Paint Correction?

Paint correction is the process of leveling out imperfections in the clear coat of your car’s paint using polishing compounds and machine buffers. It removes:

• Swirl marks

• Micro-scratches

• Water spots

• Oxidation

• Paint haze

However, it does not repair actual paint chips, which go deeper than the surface layer.

Why Paint Correction Doesn’t Fix Chips

Paint chips typically happen when small debris—like gravel or salt—strikes your car’s surface, penetrating through the clear coat and paint. This causes tiny craters or missing spots of color, which cannot be removed by polishing alone.

Paint correction is designed to correct surface-level flaws. If the paint is missing or the primer is exposed, a more direct repair is needed.

How to Fix Paint Chips

While paint correction won’t fix chips, here are a few methods that can:

1. Touch-Up Paint

• Use manufacturer-matched paint to fill the chip

• Ideal for small chips and less visible areas

• Inexpensive but may not look flawless

2. Paint Chip Repair Kits

• Combine paint, blending solution, and sealant

• More comprehensive than basic touch-up

• Some DIY kits offer decent results with patience

3. Professional Paint Repair

• Involves sanding, priming, repainting, and clear coating

• Best for larger chips or when you want a seamless finish

• Can be combined with paint correction for full restoration

Combine Paint Correction + Chip Repair for Best Results

Many professional detailers offer a combination of services:

1. Touch-up chip repair

2. Paint correction to smooth and enhance the surrounding area

3. Protective coatings like ceramic or sealants

If you're in Aurora, CO, the roads can be tough on your vehicle's paint. Salt, gravel, and road debris make chip prevention and repair essential for long-term care.

Paint Protection After Correction or Repair

Once your chips are fixed and the paint has been corrected, consider protecting your investment with:

• Ceramic coating – Long-term protection from UV, dirt, and water

• Paint protection film (PPF) – Great for high-impact areas like the front bumper and hood

Regular waxing or sealant – For seasonal defense

Whether you're dealing with minor imperfections or want full paint restoration, we've got your car covered.

Paint correction is a powerful way to restore your car’s finish—but it doesn’t fix paint chips. For that, you’ll need touch-up paint, a chip repair kit, or professional service. Afterward, protect your paint with a ceramic coating or sealant to prevent future damage.

If you’re in Aurora, CO, Moose Car Care can help you bring your paint back to life. Contact us for a quote or stop by today.

Polishing a black car