What is a primer-depth scratch across a panel?

Grey, white or black in the line, clearly not your colour, is the layer under the paint. On a metal panel that is primer. On a bumper it may be the plastic itself. Either way, the clear coat and colour are both gone along that line.

What kind of repair does it need?

Painting the panel. It is prepared, colour matched, sprayed and clear coated, and blended into the panel beside it. The good news: no bare metal is showing, so no rust yet.

Class of work Panel refinish, blended into the panel beside it.

The panel is prepared, the colour is matched and sprayed, and clear coat goes over it. Metallic and pearl colours are harder to blend than solid colours. Aluminium panels need different preparation from steel. Both add to the job.

What to do next

Get two quotes, because prices vary a lot. Ask if the price includes blending into the next panel. On metallic or pearl paint, skipping the blend can leave a colour difference. If it is a bumper, ask if they do it on or off the car. Tell them if the panel is aluminium.

Sources

  1. KH Automotive Collision RepairrepairerThe bumper cover (also known as the fascia), the painted plastic cladding, is cosmetic rather than structural and is generally made from TPO or polypropylene.
  2. BASFpaint makerBASF recommends applying the specified amount of clear to the entire panel when doing Basecoat/Clearcoat repairs.
  3. Sherwin-Williams Automotivepaint makerSand and featheredge damaged areas to remove chips, then refinish
  4. Standoxpaint makerMicro/Spot repair or complete refinishing is necessary for true rectification
  5. GarageWeldingblogAluminum needs dedicated tools, contamination control, and a compatible joining process.
  6. Chemical Guysproduct sellerIf you catch the scratch with your fingernail, it likely extends into the paint layer.

Not sure what your car damage is?

Point your phone at it, or describe it. The answer in seconds, $8 AUD.

Check it

Related

What is a light scratch on car paint? A light scratch sits in the clear coat or just into the colour. Learn how to tell the difference and what repair each one needs. What is a deep scratch on car paint? A scratch your fingernail catches usually improves with polishing, and only comes out fully if it is still shallow. Learn what to expect and when it needs paint. What is a scratch into the colour coat? A scratch showing your car's own colour, duller than the surrounding paint, has broken through the clear coat. Learn what repair it needs. What is a colour coat scratch across a panel? A scratch into the colour coat that runs the length of a panel needs refinishing. Learn what that involves and what to ask for.
← All damage types
Check it