This paint is so weak its killing me

[Aquariu///M]

Depends where you're driving...

[CrusherM3]

Originally Posted by dom_cmh

Didn't I read on here somewhere that this is a result of the new water-based paint being used rather than oil based? If so thank your EPA and government once again.

There is no comparison between the waterbase and the solvent base coatings...save the planet or save your car....It's not really your choice...The choice has already been made...

[Nicname]

Originally Posted by KIS

The worst is when you find that the bird droppings that you immediately cleaned off have already etched the paint.

+1

[DARK_M3]

I don't think I have any chips. A couple little scrapes here and there but I have yet to see a rock chip.

[sello]

have u ever seen another m3 with metal showing all over it..i really dont think your m is an exception.

[dom_cmh]

Originally Posted by CrusherM3

There is no comparison between the waterbase and the solvent base coatings...save the planet or save your car....It's not really your choice...The choice has already been made...

I'd gladly debate the save the planet portion of your comment! BTW, it's the same laws that are killing hardwood floor refinishing as they too have to switch to water based solutions. I recently went through that fiasco. I had to import the "good stuff" from West Virginia felt like it was a drug.

[rjd598]

Originally Posted by Invadermoose

I've known him for years. I think I'll be okay.

is he an actual detailer who knows what he's doing? if so then im guessing you are getting hooked up

[Canuckles]

Every M I've seen has had a few chips and if they are located on the front bumper, it just gives you a good excuse to go buy a Euro or aftermarket version. Then get a clear bra.

OP, behind the wheels gets pretty banged up too, windshield hits suck....

[Templar]

Kinda ridiculous to regret buying the car because of a few rock chips and scratches. If you're that concerned about the looks then garage it and take pictures.

[tibra1]

Originally Posted by Templar

Kinda ridiculous to regret buying the car because of a few rock chips and scratches. If you're that concerned about the looks then garage it and take pictures.

I would agree with this..rock chips are inevitable.

[TOGWT]

Originally Posted by Invadermoose

So it isnt just where I live? The paint is really this fragile..

A car meets a small rock chip at 55MPH

Force acts through a body that has a surface area; if the surface area is really small while maintaining an equal force, the pressure becomes astronomical and the object under pressure capable of penetrating the surface of an otherwise tough material. (Newton's third law of motion)

This can best be summed up as: your car’s paint finish, though it may feel hard, is actually rather soft. Nearly everything else that comes in contact with it, though it may feel soft, is harder by comparison and will scratch it with enough pressure – sometimes just the slightest of pressure.

[gatorfast]

Ever car, BMW or other, gets rock chips. It's inevitable, especially on a daily driver.

[Richie Carbone]

Originally Posted by ftconstruct

You should be more frightened of the guy who is doing a "paint correction" for $200.

I agree.

[CrusherM3]

Originally Posted by dom_cmh

I'd gladly debate the save the planet portion of your comment! BTW, it's the same laws that are killing hardwood floor refinishing as they too have to switch to water based solutions. I recently went through that fiasco. I had to import the "good stuff" from West Virginia felt like it was a drug.

You're right about that...no argument here..Save the planet is cry of the people behind all the waterbase technology...It is way more exspensive and like I said not nearly as good in my opinion.. and don't get me started on lead free pigments...anyone ignorant enough to eat paint chips was probaly already retarded.

[KIS]

I understand BMW's explanation of why their paint sucks. What I don't understand is how other cars don't have the same paint problems, since the same laws presumably apply to them as well. I purchased a Lexus for my wife 3 months before I purchased my M and her paint is flawless. Both cars are daily drivers, and I am much more careful with my car than she is with hers.

[Darkboyz68]

That bird crap thing sucks. Right on my hood, it looks like it ate thru the clear but fortunately it can only be seen at specific angles, still sucks.

[tibra1]

Originally Posted by Darkboyz68

That bird crap thing sucks. Right on my hood, it looks like it ate thru the clear but fortunately it can only be seen at specific angles, still sucks.

+1 I had a burn bomb right on the CF roof..left a visble etch mark..had to get it compounded and polished..its the only way to get rid of it

[pro-tect mobile]

Originally Posted by dom_cmh

Didn't I read on here somewhere that this is a result of the new water-based paint being used rather than oil based? If so thank your EPA and government once again.

Your exactly right. this isnt just a BMW issue. Go into any car forum and you will find the same complaints. The EU, Japan, Canada... have United States EPA type agenices and all are pretty much following the same regulations. All automakers are all going with water based paint now due to government regulations. So it doesnt matter what car you go down and buy you will have the same issues. A lot of these regulations have been enacted in the last 4-5 years.... so cars 5-10 years ago didnt have the same paint chipping issues. Unfortunately it is going to be the standard now.

KIs, Lexus paint is just as bad. I saw one the other day that wasnt even two weeks old and already had 15 or so chips on it. So maybe your wife has just been REALLY lucky or doesnt tailgate very much. But it is across the board.

[BimmerRob08]

Interesting issues everyone has experianced. My M3 is an 08 Space Gray Metalic. I had most of it covered by Paintshield in England that used Xpel plastic clear bra. But the rear panels and drunk are not covered. And so far from my experiance, the paint is pretty tough and resistant against swirl marks, scratching, etc. I guess the Xpel has done its job upfront as I live in the dusty/desert of the SW and have gone through 3 windshields in 1 year but compared to other cars I've owned, mainly GM products, the OEM paint from BMW is very resistant and is standing up pretty well to the elements after 4 years of driving.

[Nine]

As long as the clearcoat is thick, I'm good.