Greetings!
Couple questions for ya’ll: Looking for some input, for my experience with car paint and protection is limited to the recent research I’ve conducted over the past few days. And unfortunately, there’s a lot of conflicting information out there. Just bought my F Sport 8 days ago: 2015 with 33,600 miles. Traded in my 2014 Jeep Wrangler JKU: gotta say it’s a night and day difference! Loved my Jeep, but a recent flux of growing mechanical issues/repair cost, on top of the noise and rough ride they’re renowned for... was ready for something a bit more reliable and comfortable/enjoyable to drive. And must say, this car definitely delivers that and MORE!💘 Anyways, bought it from Carvana, and they didn’t disclose two small chips on the driver side door and fender. Their third-party vendor approved taking it to a shop of my choice to get those fixed. Have an appt with local Lexus dealership this Wednesday. Not sure what to expect: if they’re going to recommend a touch-up or repaint. Have read some horror stories about touch-ups, and how it doesn’t blend well with the existing paint and stands out. Being the dealership, and assuming they have the exact OEM color match, what are y’a’ll’s thoughts on allowing touch-ups if that’s the route they recommend? Also, there’s a somewhat noticeable chip on the front, lower part of the hood (picture attached) that was disclosed, that the warranty won’t cover. It’s small, but pretty deep. Don’t want to risk it rusting down the road, so was planning on paying out of pocket for them to fix that. But again, back to that same question: touch-up or repaint entire hood? And lastly, wondering what route to take in protecting the paint from rock chips, road debris, etc. I use it as a daily driver, in an area where development/construction seems to always be going on. Without doubt I’m going to be at more risk for paint damage. I’ve read up on paint protection. Looks like a clear bra or ceramic coating are the two best options. Found a local, very reputable auto spa/detailing company that specializes in wraps, bras, etc. with 4.9 review rating that also does all the wraps for our local BMW Performance Center’s car (have a BMW plant in our city- Greenville, SC). In my research, learned for something as specific as a wrap, it’s best to go with skilled professionals. Anyways, questions are: clear bra or ceramic? Leaning toward the clear bra, but concerned in appearance after it’s installed. The black obsidian is beautiful, and don’t want to alter it. The company assured it won’t, and reviews from other Lexus owners, as well as other high-end vehicle owners like Porsche, Mercedes, etc. have affirmed this. But, no reviews from specific RC owners. The company uses XPEL and guarantees the clear bra for 10 years... Also, is a partial hood, partial fenders, and full bumper coverage enough, or should I consider full hood? The package prices, as you can imagine, and probably know, are VERY different. The prior starts at $999 and the latter at $1999. Am a 6th gd teacher, so not rolling in the dough over here.😉 However, want to protect my investment, especially seeing how I plan to keep the car for a long time. And am OCD, paint chips bother me.😉 Have also thought about how 70% of the front bumper is grille. Paying for a wrap on 30% bumper seems a waste. Especially, upon inspection, that 30% isn’t showing any paint damage. It’s the front part of the hood, going about 1/3 up from the bumper/grille, that seems to take the brunt of the damage. And a few very minor spots in the fenders. That hood is so large, there’s not much fender showing up front. My apologies for the lengthy post, but wanted to be as detailed as possible with questions and thoughts processes- and being and English teacher doesn’t lend itself well to the succinct.😉


Thanks so much, in advance, for taking the time to read this novelette and provide some MUCH-NEEDED input!😊

 

I didn't read all of that, lol. I tend to skim big blocks of texts if there isn't a break for a new paragraph.

But for paint chip repair, if you don't want it professionally done, then get some Dr. Color Chip. I have one for all of my cars.

And if you want further paint protection, look into paint protection film. Be warned, it's pricey.