Peeling paint on a car or van is more than just an eyesore. Left untreated, it can expose the metal beneath, leading to rust, corrosion and more expensive repairs later on. Whether it’s a small patch on a door or widespread peeling across the bonnet or roof, acting early is key.
Understanding why paint peels and what you can do about it will help you decide whether it is a DIY fix or a job best left to a professional bodyshop.
Why vehicle paint starts to peel
Paint peeling usually happens when the bond between the paint and the surface underneath breaks down. Common causes include:
- Age and general wear, especially on older vehicles
- UV damage from prolonged sun exposure
- Poor quality paintwork or previous repairs
- Stone chips that allow moisture to get underneath the paint
- Inadequate preparation before repainting
Assessing the damage
Before deciding what to do, take a close look at the affected area.
- Small patches or flaking clear coat may be manageable
- Larger areas of bare metal or bubbling paint suggest deeper problems
- Rust underneath peeling paint needs urgent attention
If you can see orange or brown discolouration, moisture has already reached the metal and the repair will need more than a simple touch-up.
Temporary fixes for minor peeling
For very small areas, a temporary repair can help slow further damage. This won’t restore a perfect finish, but it can protect the metal.
Steps typically include:
- Gently sanding away loose paint
- Cleaning the area thoroughly
- Applying a primer suitable for bare metal
- Using touch-up paint matched to your vehicle colour
- Sealing with a clear coat
This approach works best for stone chips or isolated flakes, not widespread peeling.
Why peeling paint is not just cosmetic
Many drivers put off repairs because the issue appears cosmetic. However, exposed metal quickly oxidises when exposed to air and moisture. Rust can spread beneath surrounding paint, making future repairs more complex and costly.
When professional repair is the best option
If paint is peeling across large areas or multiple panels, professional repair is strongly recommended. A bodyshop can:
- Strip back damaged paint properly
- Treat or remove rust
- Prepare the surface correctly
- Repaint using durable, colour-matched finishes
In many cases, partial resprays can be done without repainting the entire vehicle, keeping costs more manageable.
Preventing paint from peeling in future
Once repaired, a few preventative steps can help protect your vehicle’s paintwork:
- Wash regularly to remove dirt and salt
- Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals
- Repair stone chips promptly
- Park in shaded or covered areas where possible
- Apply wax or paint protection treatments
Regular care helps maintain the bond between paint layers and extends the life of the finish.
Paint peeling can look straightforward, but improper repairs often make the problem worse. Speaking to a trusted garage or body repair specialist ensures the right approach is taken from the start, saving time and money in the long run. Want to know more? Follow Trust A Garage on Facebook or X.