Txnolebd

iTrader: (2)

I know that the paint on vehicles today is not what it used to be but I believe this F-150 may be the worst I have ever had. I have traveled the same roads for years and get the occasional small rocks thrown up as people pass by. I have more chips on my 2012 FX2 in three months than I have had on other trucks I have driven on these roads for years. This stuff is so thin and chips so easy. Now, with that said, that is really my only complaint in three months but I'm gonna have to fix these. Anybody recommend the best way to take care of these chips. I know I can get auto touch up paint but that stuff is so thin it's hard to make it look good.

21RRF150

iTrader: (1)

Sorry to hear that you think its so thin. Its not as thin as some think.


But I've heard Dr Color Chip works wonders.

Txnolebd

iTrader: (2)

Thanks, I will check that out!

Vandicate

Best results I've had with rock chips is the following:

- clean the area
- prime it
- touch up paint (multiple coats may be needed to get is flush)
- seal and protect it with a bit a clear coat / polish / way

I started doing that when I noticed that touch up paint alone wouldn't last through multiple car washes.

PawPaw

I've got the optional "Orange Peel" paint...it doesn't chip too bad!!

21RRF150

iTrader: (1)

Haha! Mine wasn't too bad...i flattened it anyway.


https://www.f150forum.com/f38/bored-...ff-job-183788/

terraformer

I've decided I'm going to have the front end, about 10" of the hood, fenders, and mirrors covered with Xpel film when my new 2013 FX4 arrives in a few weeks. I've read up on this and Xpel is sort of the next-gen version of the 3M paint protection product.

It's expensive to install, about $900 locally (that's with a 10 year warranty, and an additional 5 year replacement warranty for any items that break through the film), but I think it's worth it, especially here in the upper MidWest where rocks and poor roads are standard operating procedure.

Rayrevolver

I did the clear bra kit from Clear Defender. I paid extra for the "Avery Nano Fusion" film. The kit covered the hood a decent ways back, fenders, and flares. Got it for $121 shipped.

The hood was tough to do solo. I did an ok job... Beats $900.

Oh yeah, I did the headlights but that was a kit from Husky.

terraformer

I hear that on the price. But I just don't trust myself for something like this - I prefer a professional installation. I know it's a crazy price, but there just aren't many places in Des Moines that do this kind of thing.

Rugger

The new way for manufacturers to save big bucks is in the paint dept.

I saw a documentary about the BMW factory that builds the Z4. They use a total of one gallon of paint for a new Z4. I found that to be amazing. Think about under the hood and trunk lid, etc. now that's a thin coat of paint.