Category: Automotive

Plastic parts like bumpers, grilles, and body mouldings take a lot of abuse—and they’re expensive to replace. Fortunately, modern adhesives make it possible to repair cracks, splits, or even missing tabs on plastic panels quickly and affordably.

Here’s how to do it right using the same techniques the pros rely on.

What You’ll Need:

• Two-part plastic adhesive or repair epoxy
• Mixing nozzle or applicator
• Sandpaper (80, 180, 320 grit)
• Plastic spreader
• Surface cleaner or degreaser
• Masking tape or clamps (for positioning)
• Primer and colour-matched paint (if finishing)
• Wax and grease remover
• Tack cloth

Step 1:

Prep the Damaged Area

Start by thoroughly cleaning the damaged area with soap and water and then plastic-safe wax and grease remover. Remove any dirt, wax, or road grime. Then sand the area around damage with 80-grit sandpaper to roughen the surface and help the adhesive grip. Blow off the area and wipe with a tack cloth.

If the plastic is cracked or separated, use masking tape or clamps to hold the pieces in place while you work.

Step 2:

Apply the Adhesive

Mix your adhesive according to the product’s instructions (many come in double-barrel cartridges with a mixing nozzle). Apply the adhesive directly to the sanded area, pressing it into cracks or gaps.

For larger repairs, you may want to reinforce the back of the panel with a flexible bumper patch, mesh patch or fibreglass cloth.

Use a spreader to smooth the adhesive flush with the panel. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—once cured, you’ll sand it flat.

Step 3:

Let It Cure Fully

Let the adhesive cure completely. Curing times vary by product—some dry in as little as 15 minutes, while others may take an hour or more. Don’t rush this step—painting or sanding too soon will ruin the repair.

Step 4:

Sand and Finish

Once cured, sand the area with 180- to 320-grit sandpaper until smooth. If needed, apply a second thin layer of adhesive to fill low spots, then sand again.

If the panel will be visible, finish the job by applying a plastic primer, colour-matched paint, and a clearcoat.

When to Repair vs. Replace

This method works great for cracks, gouges, broken mounting tabs, and even small missing sections. If the panel is severely warped or missing large chunks, replacement may be the better route.

Make It Stick—with the Right Products

Autohome carries professional-grade plastic repair adhesives that bond fast and hold strong, plus the tools you need to apply them properly. Whether you’re patching a bumper or rebuilding a bracket, we’ll help you pick the right system for a long-lasting repair.

If you want your paint repair to last—and actually look good—don’t skip the prep. Proper sanding and priming create a smooth, clean foundation that helps your paint stick, level out, and hold up over time. Whether you’re working on a scratch, patch, or full panel, this guide walks you through the essentials.

Why Sand and Prime?

Sanding removes old paint, surface imperfections, and rust, while priming fills minor flaws, improves adhesion, and prevents corrosion. It’s the make-or-break step that separates a pro-looking finish from a flaky, uneven mess.

What You’ll Need:

• Sandpaper (180, 320, 600 grit)
• Sanding block or orbital sander (optional)
• Primer (filler, high-build, or etching depending on the job)
• Masking tape and paper
• Wax and grease remover
• Clean cloth or tack cloth

Step 1:

Clean the Surface

Wash the vehicle with soap and water to remove any water-soluable contaminants.  While still wet, dry with another rag. Then use a grease and wax remover and a lint-free rag to wipe down the area, removing any oil-based contaminants. Any leftover dust, oils, or debris can interfere with primers and paints, so take a moment to make sure it’s completely clean.

Step 2:

Sand the Damaged Area

Use 180- to 320-grit sandpaper, sand down the repair area. If there’s old paint peeling or bubbling, remove it until you reach a solid edge. Sand beyond the immediate damage to feather out the edges into the surrounding panel.

Use a sanding block for flat areas to avoid uneven surfaces. For curves or corners, sand by hand using consistent pressure.

Step 3:

Prepare the Surface for Primer and Paint

After sanding, blow off excess sanding residue. Then use a tack cloth to pick up any fine debris before you spray.

Step 4:

Apply the Primer

Choose the right primer for your project:

• Etching primer – Best for bare metal to prevent rust and improve adhesion.
• Filler primer – Helps fill minor scratches or imperfections.
• High-build primer – Great for surfacing and levelling larger areas.

Shake your primer can well. Apply 2–3 medium coats, allowing appropriate flash time between each (usually 10–20 minutes). Hold the can about 6–8 inches from the surface and use sweeping motions.

Step 5:

Let It Cure, Then Sand Again

Once your primer is fully dry (refer to product instructions), sand the surface with 600-grit sandpaper to smooth it out and feather the edges into the surrounding paint.

After sanding, wipe down the panel again with a tack cloth.

Now you’re ready for your basecoat.

Pro Tip

Don’t rush this step. If the primer is still soft when you sand or paint over it, you’ll get uneven absorption, texture problems, or even peeling later on.

Your Project Starts Here

At Autohome, we carry everything from self-etching primers to high-build surfacers—plus sandpaper, blocks, and prep tools to make your job easier. Tell us what you’re working on and we’ll guide you to the right products for a clean, lasting finish.

Chips, nicks, and light scratches can make your vehicle look worn before its time. With a little prep and a can of colour-matched aerosol paint, you can make those minor imperfections disappear.

Here’s how to do it properly, without making a bigger mess than you started with.

What You’ll Need:

• Colour-matched aerosol paint
• Clearcoat (optional but recommended)
• Sandpaper (320 and 600 grit)
• Masking tape and paper
• Wax and grease remover
• Microfibre cloth
• Primer (for exposed metal or deeper scratches)
• Wax and grease remover

Step 1:

Clean the Area

Start by washing the damaged area with soap and water, then wipe it down with wax and grease remover, drying it off with another clean cloth. Any leftover oils or debris can affect how the paint adheres.

Step 2:

Sand and Feather

Use 320-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the chip or scratch. Your goal is to remove any loose paint and smooth the edges so they feather into the surrounding surface. If bare metal is exposed, apply a couple of thin coast of primer before moving on.

Let the primer dry completely, approximately 12-24 hours, and then sand it smooth with 600 grit sandpaper. Wipe the area with a tack cloth.

Step 3:

Mask Surrounding Panels

Use automotive tape and masking paper (or plastic) to protect nearby areas. Even though you’re working on a small spot, aerosol paint travels—and overspray can stick where you don’t want it.

Step 4:

Shake and Spray

Shake your aerosol can thoroughly—at least 2 minutes after the mixing ball starts rattling. Hold the can about 6–8 inches away and apply light, even coats. Start spraying slightly before the area and continue slightly past it to avoid heavy build-up.

Apply 2–3 medium coats, waiting 20 minutes between each coat.

Step 5:

Apply Clearcoat (Optional but Ideal)

Once the colour has dried, approximately 30 minutes, apply a clearcoat using the same method—medium, even coats with proper flash time between them. Clearcoat adds gloss and helps protect the repair from UV fading and wear.

Step 6:

Blend and Finish

Let the area cure fully (usually 30 days). If the repair stands out too much, you can lightly wet sand with ultra-fine paper (1500–2000 grit) and then polish it to blend it more seamlessly with the surrounding paint.

It’s All About the Prep

A good touch-up job is less about how steady your hand is—and more about taking your time with prep, sanding, and layering. With the right approach, even first-timers can get impressive results.

Let Autohome Colour-Match It for You

Bring your paint code or vehicle in for matching to Autohome and we’ll mix a custom-matched aerosol that’s perfect for your vehicle. Whether it’s a deep scratch or just a few chips, we’ve got the primers, clearcoats, and advice to help you do it right the first time.

If your paint’s looking dull, hazy, or just a little tired—don’t reach for the respray just yet. A good polish can restore shine, smooth out fine scratches, and bring your clearcoat back to life. It’s one of the easiest ways to refresh your vehicle’s finish.

What’s the Difference Between Waxing and Polishing?

Polishing is a corrective process—it removes minor imperfections, swirl marks, and oxidation. Waxing, on the other hand, is about protection. Ideally, you polish first, then follow up with a coat of wax or sealant to protect your work.

What You’ll Need:

• Car wash soap and bucket
• Microfibre towels
• Polishing compound (mild or medium cut)
• Dual-action polisher (optional but recommended)
• Applicator pad (foam or microfibre)
• Wax (optional for protection)
• Wax and grease remover

Step 1:

Wash and Dry Your Vehicle

Before you polish, your paint needs to be completely clean. Wash your car using a dedicated automotive soap (not dish soap!) and dry with a clean microfibre towel to avoid scratching the surface. Next, wash on and dry off wax and grease remover.

Step 2:

Inspect the Paint

Run your hand over the paint. If it feels rough or gritty, consider claying the surface first to remove embedded contaminants. Then assess where polishing is needed—typically on horizontal surfaces, door panels, and areas with noticeable dullness or swirl marks.

Step 3:

Apply Polish

If you’re polishing by hand:

• Apply a small amount of polish to your applicator pad.
• Rub into the paint using overlapping circular motions.
• Buff off with a clean microfibre towel once the residue hazes over.

If using a dual-action polisher:

• Apply polish to the pad and spread over a small section.
• Set the machine to low speed to spread the product, then increase speed for polishing.
• Work in 2’ x 2’ sections for best control.

Step 4:

Wipe and Inspect

After polishing, wipe down the surface with a microfibre towel and inspect under natural light. If the surface still looks hazy or uneven, repeat the process. Sometimes a second pass with a finer polish makes a noticeable difference.

Step 5:

Protect Your Finish

Polishing removes a tiny layer of clearcoat, so it’s important to protect it afterward. Apply a wax or paint sealant to lock in shine and guard against UV damage, road grime, and moisture.

Results You Can See

A properly polished vehicle reflects light more clearly, feels smooth to the touch, and looks years newer. It’s a satisfying job—and one of the most rewarding weekend projects for any car owner.

Get the Right Tools at Autohome

From beginner-friendly polishes to pro-grade tools, Autohome has the equipment and advice you need to bring back your vehicle’s shine. Drop in, describe your paint condition, and we’ll help you choose the right approach for a smooth, swirl-free finish.

Painting your vehicle or just a panel might seem intimidating, but with the right tools, prep work, and patience, you can absolutely do it at home. Whether you’re refreshing a faded fender or tackling a full-body respray, this guide walks you through the essentials for a solid DIY finish.

Before You Start

Ask yourself:

• Is this a full vehicle paint job or a smaller repair?
• Do you have a clean, well-ventilated area to work in?
• Are you working with aerosol cans or a spray gun?

For large jobs, a spray gun and compressor are best—but for spot repairs and touch-ups, high-quality aerosol paint can still deliver great results.

What You’ll Need:

• Safety gear (mask, gloves, goggles)
• Sandpaper (various grits: 320 to 600)
• Tack cloths
• Painter’s tape and masking materials
• Automotive primer
• Colour-matched basecoat
• Clearcoat (for durability and gloss)
• Spray gun or aerosol cans
• Wax and grease remover
• Optional: polishing compound and buffer

Step 1:

Clean and Prep Like a Pro

Good paint starts with clean, smooth panels. Wash your vehicle with soap and water first then and use a wax and grease remover to remove oils or wax. Then sand the surface using 320–400 grit paper to remove the gloss from the old paint. Feather the edges of chips or scratches so they’ll blend.

Mask off any areas you don’t want to paint (trim, glass, lights), and use plastic or paper sheeting to protect the rest of the car.

Step 2:

Prime the Surface

Apply a quality automotive primer over any bare metal or body filler. Use medium, even coats and allow each coat to dry fully, approximately 30 minutes, before applying the next. Once dry, typically 12 hours, sand lightly and evenly with 600 grit to smooth the surface.

Tip: Use a tack cloth before painting to remove any dust.

Step 3:

Apply the Basecoat

Shake your aerosol can or mix your spray gun paint thoroughly. Apply multiple medium coats of your colour-matched basecoat, allowing proper flash time between coats (usually 15–20 minutes). Avoid heavy coats that can lead to runs.

You’ll likely need 2–4 coats depending on the colour and coverage.

Step 4:

Clearcoat for Protection

Once the basecoat has dried (follow the instructions on your product), apply a clearcoat to seal in colour and add gloss. Like the basecoat, use multiple medium coats for best results. Let the clear fully cure—this can take 24 hours or more depending on temperature and humidity.

Step 5:

Finishing Touches

After the paint is fully cured, you can gently polish the surface to enhance the shine and blend with the surrounding panels. Use a soft cloth and polishing compound, or a buffer for larger areas.

Final Notes

• Paint in a dust-free, well-ventilated space.
• Always check compatibility between products.
• Be patient—rushing paint jobs leads to more repairs later.

Paint It Like a Pro—With Help from Autohome

Whether you’re painting a panel, a bumper, or the whole car, Autohome can help you choose the right paint system and tools for your skill level and setup. From custom colour-matched aerosols to full refinishing systems, we’ve got everything you need to get quality results.

When it comes to touch-ups or custom spray jobs, getting the colour right matters. Matching by eye alone often leads to disappointment. The most accurate way to find your vehicle’s exact colour? Use its factory colour code.

Here’s how to locate your colour code and what to do with it.

What Is a Vehicle Colour Code?

Every vehicle comes with a manufacturer-issued paint code—usually a short string of letters and/or numbers that identifies the exact colour used at the factory. This code allows paint suppliers like Autohome to match your original finish as closely as possible, even accounting for subtle differences between model years or trim levels.

Where to Find It

Your paint code is typically printed on a label somewhere in your vehicle. Common locations include:

• Driver’s side door jamb (on the door or near the latch)
• Under the hood (on the radiator support or firewall)
• In the glove box or inside the fuel door
• Owner’s manual (sometimes listed with other VIN-related data)

The code may be labelled as “Paint,” “Paint Code,” “PNT,” or just appear as a string alongside other manufacturing data.

Pro Tip: The code often doesn’t include the name of the colour—just the code. So “NH-731P” might be called “Crystal Black Pearl,” but the code is what we need to match it perfectly.

Can’t Find the Code?

No worries—Autohome can still help. If you can’t locate the label or it’s been removed, we can visually match the paint using colour decks or specialized tools. For best results, bring in your vehicle or a part of the vehicle that’s in good condition (like a gas door or mirror cap).

Why Not Just Use the Colour Name?

Automotive paint names can be misleading—one manufacturer’s “Silver” may differ from another’s, and even within the same model year, different trim packages might use different versions of the same colour family. That’s why the code is key—it cuts out the guesswork.

Match It, Mix It, Spray It

Once you have the code, Autohome can mix your paint for touch-up bottles, aerosol spray cans, or larger quantities for full panels. We use high-quality automotive coatings that are VOC-compliant and designed for Canadian conditions.

Bring Us the Code—we’ll Handle the Rest

Still not sure where to start? Just pop in with your paint code (or your car!) and we’ll help you match, mix, and choose the right tools to get the job done right. At Autohome, we make it easy to bring your finish back to factory-fresh.

Fibreglass is durable and lightweight, but when it cracks or chips, you’ll want to repair it quickly to avoid further damage—especially in automotive applications like body panels, truck boxes, or custom parts. Thankfully, fibreglass repairs are easier than they look.

What You’ll Need:

• Fibreglass repair kit (resin, hardener, cloth)
• Mixing container and stir stick
• Sandpaper (80, 120, 220 grit)
• Disposable gloves and mask
• Scissors or utility knife
• Plastic spreader
• Primer and automotive paint (if painting after)
• Clean rags
• Wax and grease remover

Step 1:

Assess and Prep the Damage

Small cracks, holes, and delamination are usually repairable at home. Wash the area with soap and water then using a clean rag apply the wax and grease remover.  Then dry off the wax and grease remover using a clean rag.  Then sand the surface with 80-grit sandpaper to roughen it—this helps the resin bond effectively.  Tack the area with a tack cloth.

If you’re working on a hole or large crack, bevel the edges slightly with a file or sandpaper to create a smoother transition when the new material is applied.

Step 2:

Cut and Fit the Fibreglass Cloth

Measure and cut pieces of fibreglass cloth to overlap the damaged area. You’ll want to layer them—start with smaller patches, then gradually increase in size for each layer. Pre-cutting makes application much smoother once the resin is mixed.

Step 3:

Mix and Apply the Resin

Follow the instructions on your fibreglass repair kit. Mix resin and hardener thoroughly in a clean container. Using a brush or spreader, apply resin to the repair area, lay down the first piece of cloth, and saturate it with more resin. Repeat for additional layers.

Make sure there are no air bubbles trapped between layers—press gently to smooth them out. Allow the resin to cure fully. This could take several hours or overnight depending on the product and conditions.

Step 4:

Sand and Finish

Once cured, sand the surface smooth, starting with 80 grit and working up to 240 grit. Feather the edges into the surrounding surface.

If the repair will be visible, apply primer over the patch, then follow with matching automotive paint and a clearcoat, if necessary.

Step 5:

Inspect and Maintain

After repairing, keep an eye on the area to ensure the patch is holding strong. For larger panels or high-stress locations, reinforcement with backing material may be needed.

Get It Right the First Time

At Autohome, we carry everything you need for fibreglass repairs—from complete kits to colour-matched paints. If you’re unsure what product suits your project best, just ask—we’re happy to walk you through the steps.

Scrapes, cracks, and gouges in your bumper don’t mean it needs replacing. With the right materials, you can repair most plastic bumpers at home and restore a smooth, factory-like finish. Here’s how to do it right.

What You’ll Need:

• Safety gear (gloves, mask, glasses)
• Sandpaper (80, 180, 320 grit)
• Plastic repair adhesive or filler
• Applicator or spreader
• Plastic primer
• Automotive paint (colour-matched)
• Clearcoat (optional)
• Masking tape and plastic sheeting
• Clean rags
• Wax and grease remover

Step 1:

Clean and Sand the Area

Start by washing the damaged area with soap and water and using a wax and grease remover to clean the surface. Dry the wax and grease remover with a clean, dry cloth.  Sand the repair area with 80-grit sandpaper to remove loose paint and roughen the plastic, giving the adhesive something to grip.

Step 2:

Apply Plastic Adhesive or Filler

For cracks or gouges, use a 2-part plastic repair adhesive. Mix according to the instructions and apply with a spreader, filling in the damaged area. Build it up slightly above the surface so you can sand it down flat once cured. Let it dry fully before moving on.

Step 3:

Shape and Smooth

Sand the area with 180-grit paper to shape the repair, then refine with 320-grit for a smooth, even surface. Feather the edges using a sanding block into the surrounding plastic for a seamless transition. Tack with a tack cloth.

Step 4:

Prime and Paint

Apply a plastic adhesion promoter or plastic primer first—plastic won’t hold paint properly without it. Let the primer dry approximately 30 minutes between coats. Apply 2–3 medium coats of colour-matched automotive paint. Allow each coat to dry as directed. Add a clearcoat if your vehicle was painted with basecoat/clearcoat from the factory.

Step 5:

Blend and Finish

If possible, blend the paint slightly into the surrounding panel to reduce noticeable edges. Once everything is fully cured, approximately 30 days, you can lightly polish the area to even out the finish.

When to Consider Replacement

If your bumper is torn in multiple places, has large holes, or is hanging loose—it may be time to consider a replacement. But for cosmetic damage or moderate cracks, repair is often faster and far more affordable.

We’ve Got What You Need

At Autohome, we carry plastic repair systems, primers, paints, and everything else to restore your bumper with confidence. Not sure where to start? Bring us a photo or stop by for expert advice—we’re here to help you get it done right.

That small dent on your fender? It doesn’t have to stay there. Whether it came from a runaway shopping cart or a rogue hockey puck, minor dents can often be fixed at home—with the right tools and a little know-how. Here’s how to bring your panel back to smooth.

What You’ll Need:

• Clean rags
• Wax and grease remover
• Dent puller (suction or glue-pull type)
• Sandpaper (80, 180, 220 grit)
• Body filler
• Spreader or plastic applicator
• Primer
• Colour-matched paint
• Clearcoat (optional)

Step 1:

Clean the Area

Start by washing the dented area with soap and water and wiping it down with grease and wax remover. Dry the grease and wax remover with a clean, white rag.  You want a clean surface so your tools and filler will adhere properly.

Step 2:

Try Pulling the Dent

For shallow dents with no paint damage, a suction-based dent puller might be all you need. Attach it to the dent and pull slowly, checking progress between pulls. If the dent is deeper or on a flexible panel, a glue-pull kit may offer more control.

If the dent pops out and you’re happy with the shape—great! You may only need some polishing. If not, continue to repair the area with body filler.

Step 3:

Sand and Fill

Use 80-grit sandpaper to rough up the area and remove paint around the dent. Wipe the area with a tack cloth then apply a thin layer of body filler using a spreader. Let it cure fully, then sand smooth with progressively finer grits until the surface blends with the surrounding area. The final sand should be 240-320 grit sand paper.

Step 4:

Prime and Paint

Apply a primer in medium even coats with approximately 30 minutes between coats.  Allow it to dry for at least 12 hours.  Sand the primer with P500-P600 sandpaper then blow off the surface and tack with a tack cloth.  Apply your colour-matched automotive paint in 2–3 light coats leaving approximately 30 minutes between coats. Follow with a clearcoat if your vehicle was painted with basecoat/clearcoat from the factory.

Pro tip: Blend the paint slightly into the surrounding area for a less visible repair.

Step 5:

Polish to Finish (Optional)

Once the paint is fully cured, after 30 days, you can gently polish the area to help blend the finish with the rest of your vehicle. This step isn’t necessary for every repair but can help create a smoother look.

Final Thoughts

Fixing a dent is all about taking your time and completing each step properly. Rushing through filler or skipping sanding will show in the final result—so stick with it and you’ll be surprised how good it can look.

Everything You Need—All in One Place

Autohome carries body fillers, sanding blocks, dent repair kits, primers, and custom-matched paints—plus helpful advice from folks who’ve done it themselves. Whether you’re trying to clean up your ride or just learn a new skill, we’re here to help make your project a success.