Paintwork and Stonechips

[roger.daltrey]

Hi Everyone

My new Europa S has almost reached 1000 miles, so nearly time for its first service - but what I hadnt expected to see was stonechips on the front.

I suppose I've been a bit spoilt recently, with relatively high cars with steel bodies and never been a problem before.

But its becoming a bit of an issue with my weekend Lotus.

Any clues how I can stop this, and where to go to get it done ?

I'd prefer a dealer fit solution - just because I'm lazy etc...

Cheers
Rog

[Philygumbo]

You can get armourfend stuck on the vulnerable areas. You normally dont get too many stone chips, unless you are following vehicles at speed. I have loads, mainly caused by runs with local hooligans, around Dorset and Hants. I am sure someone will recommend a repair shop in your area. You might find it helpful to post the question on SELOC.

[jondude]

Did you buy the car new? I thought Lotus put protective films on now, as part of the deal?

[roger.daltrey]

Yes, I did buy new - a showroom model (not a factory order) but not from my local dealer.

I'd heard about the paint protection products but didnt actually think I'd need one.

They tried to sell me some swissvax stuff (creams, lotions & wax) - but didnt bother.

Would you advise me getting my local dealer to sort for me ?

Cheers
Rog

[Anatol]

There's a whole can-o-worms debate in relation to paint protection films - some of the arguments about what film or which individual/company to apply them is best get remarkably catty.

That they can protect against chipping and minor scuffs is undeniable.

I've not had a chance to look at all the different films up close, but the films I have seen I would consider putting on a pale car in low-profile areas, but never on a dark one or high profile. In short, the films have a fine orange-peel texture like poor-quality paintwork that hasn't been cut and polished. As with everything, a pale colour hides this well, as well as the film edges, but on a deep colour, the result is (IMHO) horrible.

Tol

[roger.daltrey]

Ah - the Europa is Canyon Red - which in sunlight looks like a bright colour - but I guess its technically a dark one

I reason this as red lights used to be used in Darkrooms when processing film.

Also, photograph in B&W and it comes out dark grey.

I know what you mean about the orange peel, as I'm sure my old TT has this on the sills which looked like orange peel.

Back to my question - should I let a dealer sort it ??

Cheers
Rog

[Anatol]

No, join the stonechip=badge-of-honour brigade and wear them with pride

Tol