Auto body repair & detailing: Clearcoat repair, bearer of bad news, paint film


Question
The paint on the hood of our 1095 Land Cruiser has just begin to display two steaks (front to back) of dull finish. I suspect that the clearcoat is beginning to break down. The finish has never been compounded or otherwise detailed. It has been treated with DryWash.

Is it worthwhile to have fresh coat of clearcoat applied by a body shop before the deterioration progresses further?

Answer
It's difficult to say what's going on without seeing it in person. It could be just some sort of contaminant on the hood that could easily be bufed off, or the paint on the hood may be in the early stages of chalking. If it's chalking, I suggest removal of the entire paint film. You know what? Drop by a local body shop and see what they think. I don't really know land rovers, but I'm skeptical that the paint is in good order. I hate being the sole bearer of bad news, but I don't really think I have good news for you. It's doubtful a new coat of clear is all it needs- paint isn't meant to be applied like that. Paint as old as yours will at minimum need thoughorally sanded with 600 or 1000 grit, then base coated and cleared- but there are surely bug and stone chips that will need fixed. Good luck to you, let me know what happens. bill