BMW Clear Coat issues

HotRod · 06-15-2009, 07:39 PM

I've got a 93 325i and a 99 M3. Both have spots where the clear coat is peeling...the 325 on the trunk and the M3, just last week after a heavy rain, on the hood. Is this a common problem? What's the most common fix? Can you have just the clear coat sanded and re clear coated? or do you have to have it completely repainted?

Manolito · 06-16-2009, 05:58 AM

I am the worst person in the world to be giving advice on paint, but here goes.

My experience is the only fix is a complete paint job. The clear coat is thicker and tougher than the paint beneath, so it is virtually impossible to sand off the clear coat without damaging the paint beneath.

What I did when the clear coat blistered on the top of a rear bumper was to sand it with 1000 grit sandpaper and lots of water JUST until the white blisters were no longer noticeable. I could not get it smooth without damaging the paint beneath. Then I sprayed it with Duplicolor aerosol can clear coat. It does not look good, but it looks good enough that you don't notice it from a distance.

On a big smooth area like the hood, it is going to look pretty rough no matter what you do, short of a full paint job.

HotRod · 06-16-2009, 07:16 AM

That's what I was afraid of...Thanks for the info.

Rucsak · 06-16-2009, 02:44 PM

Yeap I agree with Manolito, fine grit paper, making sure that pressure during sanding is kept even, use a sanding block (basically trying not to stay in 1 section when sanding) or you will cut through the paint more than needed. Then if you have the ideal location to spray paint yourself great if not then you'll need to put your hand in your pocket. If you are considering getting a professional painter just check if their ok with you doing the sanding, as that could come back if the job turns to crap. Painter blaming the owner etc. Although I know how to spray paint, I suggest you take a look on you tube as I saw a couple of great entires for you to view. Good luck

HotRod · 06-16-2009, 03:12 PM

Since both spots are in high visibility areas, I'll probably just get them repainted. The M3 isn't too noticable yet as the car is white...the red 325 on the other hand...

abcxyz · 06-16-2009, 10:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HotRod

I've got a 93 325i and a 99 M3. Both have spots where the clear coat is peeling...the 325 on the trunk and the M3, just last week after a heavy rain, on the hood. Is this a common problem? What's the most common fix? Can you have just the clear coat sanded and re clear coated? or do you have to have it completely repainted?

My car has this problem on the hood as well as the rear bumper. I was always told that the peeling of this clear coat was a result of the car having been repainted (I bought the car used), but I don't believe it has been repainted. I don't know. Anyway, it peels more and more each time I wash my car...