Whats happening to this paint?

[dcswd]

My neighbor recently bought a car. It has a problem with the paint right above the headlight. This is the only spot on the car where there is a problem like this.



It looks like the clearcoat is seperating from the paint it self, but its not flaking off at all. When I felt it with my finger, it was smooth (except for the usual paint flaws)



Here is a closeup, its a bit blurry but hopefully it can give you an idea.

and here is the general area. (ignore the paw prints )

Before I start working on the rest of the paint, does anyone have an idea of what this problem actually is? and are there any reccomendations on how to fix it?



Thanks in advance.

 

[dternst]

The problem really isn't that clear in the pictures. It could be a burn mark from a buffer/polisher.

 

[dcswd]

Ill have to work on getting better pictures, I was limited on time though. I dont think its a burn mark though. The problem follows down the seam on the hood. Maybe im wrong but it would be hard to get the buffer down the seam like that.



Just for reference, the problem area is about a 1 foot square area which also goes down onto the quarter pannel.

 

[imported_mirrorfinishman]

Before I start working on the rest of the paint, does anyone have an idea of what this problem actually is? and are there any reccomendations on how to fix it?

It may not be a good idea to do any work at all on this car until you have identified what is going on with this paint. You wouldn't want to make matters worse.

 

[dcswd]

It may not be a good idea to do any work at all on this car until you have identified what is going on with this paint. You wouldn't want to make matters worse.

yeah, thats true

 

[jimmybuffit]

Acknowledging that the pics don't show the defect well, my guess is clearcoat delamination/failure., or bird droppingd.



Check this photo: http://autoint.com/Bird Dropping Damages.htm

 

[GoodnClean]

My guess is delamination also. Is that an Avalon or a first gen Infiniti Q45?

 

[dcswd]

It isnt bird droppings. Its on a 97' or so Nissan Sentra. It probably is delamination. Now my question is, is there anyway to fix this? or is repainting it the only option?

 

[bronze2006]

before you repaint at least try something like polishing it