Scratch identification
Rock-Chip-Looking Marks
These photos show small nick and chip-looking marks. The photos cannot prove what caused them, their depth, or what is under the paint.
What am I looking at?
Look for one small nick or several small dark marks. Check nearby worn edges as a separate repair area. Similar-looking marks can have different causes.
How can I check?
Wash and dry each spot gently. Look in good light for missing color, a loose edge, or rust. Do not pick at the mark to test it. Ask for help if you cannot identify the exposed surface.
Can I repair it myself?
A small missing-color spot may be a do-it-yourself touch-up. Rust, a wide worn edge, or damage that spreads needs more care and may need a body shop.
What products and method fit?
Find your paint code before ordering. Compare a matched pen for a tiny spot or a bottle for a slightly larger one. Follow the directions and use primer only when the exposed surface calls for it.
Real examples
Small dark nick by a silver door handle
What the photo shows: A small dark mark is visible near the handle. The photo cannot show whether color is missing or what material is underneath.
What to do next: Clean the spot and check it in good light. If color is missing, find your paint code and compare a matched pen or bottle. Ask for help if the spot is rusty or you cannot tell what is exposed.
Several small dark marks on a light truck panel
What the photo shows: Several small dark marks are visible on the light panel. A larger worn edge is also in view. A photo does not prove how any mark happened or how deep it goes.
What to do next: Check each small mark after cleaning. If color is missing, compare a matched pen or bottle. Get help for the larger worn area or any exposed material you cannot identify.
Need a next step?
Find your vehicle color before ordering paint. If you are unsure what the photo shows, ask PaintScratch for help.