Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

How do you fix an orange peel effect on car paint?

I repainted a section of my car recently and now it looks like an orange peel. I don’t think I used the right materials. How can I fix an orange peel effect on my car paint?

avatar
Will Baldwin · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
You’re correct! Not using the right materials can cause an orange peel effect on your car’s paint. Thankfully, it is fixable! To start, you’ll need these supplies:
  • Pail
  • Water
  • Dish soap
  • Spray bottle
  • Sanding block
  • Sandpaper
  • Towel
  • Rubbing compound
  • Cloth
  • Wax
Once you have the supplies, follow these steps:
  • Add some soap and water to a spray bottle.
  • Wrap your sanding block in 1,000 to 2,000 grit sandpaper, then dip the sanding block into the water.
  • Spray the area with the orange peel texture with the spray bottle.
  • Evenly sand with light pressure. Make sure to keep track of the amount you’ve sanded and don’t sand edges.
  • Continue sanding and add water as necessary. It’s okay to leave some of the peel as the rubbing compound next will finish it off.
  • Dry the area with a towel.
  • Add a small amount of rubbing compound to the cloth. Work the compound into the area, buffing it in a circular motion.
  • Finish by adding a small amount of wax.
If this doesn’t work, you’ll likely have to take the car to a
professional
. You don’t want to damage the paint any further, potentially making it even more expensive to repair it.
Since you clearly take care of your car, consider adding a roadside assistance membership with
Jerry
for some peace of mind! Jerry’s membership provides you with industry-leading roadside assistance, including benefits like towing, lockout service, and a mechanics hotline. To find out if you’re eligible, you can check the app or call one of our friendly agents. You may qualify for a special rate of $50 for your first year!
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings