Car, Van, SUV & More

Frequently Asked Questions

🚘 Frequently Asked Questions: Automotive Touch-Up Paint & Scratch Repair

A comprehensive guide to solving everyday car paint problems—from choosing the right kit to making repairs that look fantastic and last.


❓ Someone scratched my car! What’s the best, easiest, and most affordable fix that lasts?

No stress—we’ve got the perfect solution. With over 1,800 high-value repair kits, we offer simple, affordable ways to fix scratches, chips, and blemishes using purpose-built tools designed to camouflage damage effectively and last long-term.


🎨 What kind of paint do I have?

Most modern vehicles fall into one of these categories:

Paint TypeCharacteristics
Solid PaintNo sparkle when viewed under sunlight
Metallic PaintVisible sparkle under sunlight
2K Tinted ClearSpecialty paint that includes a tinted clear layer
Tri-ColourRequires two shade colours to match the factory finish

Identifying your paint finish is essential for choosing the correct repair product.


🧰 How do I know which paint repair kit I need?

Most kits include core items like:

  • Work cloths and polish cloths
  • Application pens 
  • Gloves and tool caddy
  • Instructions manual

The actual paint and cleaning products vary, depending on your damage type. The more comprehensive your kit, the better the final result. Visit our homepage to match your damage with the most suitable pen touch kit.


🏷️ Where do I find my car’s paint code?

Look in one of the following locations:

  • Inside the front door jamb (B-pillar)
  • Under the hood/bonnet on the vehicle ID label
  • Inside the boot well (e.g., Audi often uses paper stickers here)

Or just call your brand’s dealership with your VIN number, and they’ll provide the exact colour and code.


🧑‍🔧 Do you offer technical support?

Absolutely! You can:

  • Call a live technician between 9 AM and 6 PM, Monday to Friday
  • Text for faster service: Mike at +61 0416 168 746

📚 How do I learn to use the kit I bought?

We’ve gone green! Repair guides are available:

  • On our online store, under the “Guides” tab
  • Attached to every kit purchased
  • Each guide includes step-by-step instructions—we recommend reading it twice before starting

You can also:

  • Email your questions to our technician
  • Call 1300 135 467 for live help
  • Watch our DIY tutorial videos online

🔄 Are the repairs permanent?

For pen touch-up kits—yes, they are permanent if applied correctly. However, colored polishes used for road rash (tiny stone chips) are a temporary cosmetic fix and need regular reapplication. For quick and accurate fixes, we suggest our PenFastic Paint Pen Kits.


💡 Why should I invest in an automotive touch-up pen repair kit?

These kits offer:

  • Cost-effective camouflage for panel damage
  • Significant savings compared to professional panel beaters
  • Ability to replicate factory-like paint layering

Stone chips and scratches happen regularly, and pen touch kits let you manage repairs easily without costly resprays. Unless the damage is extreme, a full respray usually isn’t necessary.


🛠️ Why were these kits developed?

To offer:

  • An affordable, effective method of hiding paint damage
  • User-friendly application, as long as instructions are followed

Think of it like your driver’s manual—read first, then drive.


🖌️ Why should I use this pen touch kit?

Because it’s:

  • Convenient and comprehensive
  • Designed to maintain your vehicle’s appearance
  • Tailored for daily damage like chips and blemishes

Our pen touch and pen kits are among the most trusted in Australia.


🎯 Will the colour match my car?

Yes—our paints are sourced from global leading manufacturers and match factory specs. If the match seems off, it’s likely due to:

  • Faded vehicle paint
  • Past repainting with lower-quality products

That said, in 98% of cases, our colour match is accurate or close enough to camouflage damage effectively, excluding the cases listed here.


🧼 How do I prep the surface before applying touch-up paint?

Clean the area with isopropyl alcohol or degreaser, remove wax or polish, and lightly sand if needed. Always dry thoroughly before applying any product.


🌦️ Can I apply touch-up paint in any weather?

Ideally, apply in dry conditions between 15°C and 25°C. Avoid painting in direct sunlight, rain, or high humidity. Indoor garages or shaded areas are best.


⏱️ How long does the repair process take?

Most pen touch repairs take 30–60 minutes, depending on drying time between layers. Full curing may take 24–48 hours.


🧪 Is the paint safe to use?

Yes—our paints meet safety standards and are safe when used as directed. Always wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area.


🧽 How do I maintain the repaired area?

Avoid washing the area for 7 days post-repair. After that, use non-abrasive cleaners and wax to protect the finish.


📦 What if I order the wrong colour or kit?

We offer easy, limited exchanges. Contact support within 7 days of receiving your kit, and we’ll help you swap it for the correct one. (Conditions Apply)


🔍 Can I use these kits on plastic bumpers or trim?

Yes, many kits are compatible with plastic surfaces. Just ensure the paint type matches and follow the guide for prepping plastic.


📏 How big a scratch or chip can I fix with a pen kit?

pen kits are ideal for chips and scratches up to 5 cm in length or diameter. For larger or deeper damage, we recommend using our spray kits or PenFastic Paint Pens for better coverage and blending. If you’re unsure, send us a photo and we’ll guide you to the best solution.


OUR PROMISE

Color Match Guarantee
Introducing Automotive Touchup Paint Pens, your go-to solution for seamlessly restoring the original brilliance of your vehicle's paint. Our paint pens deliver an exact match to the auto colour standards set by a prestigious global paint company – the Axalta Group of Companies. Renowned for manufacturing high-quality paints used by some of the world's most iconic automotive brands, including Mercedes-Benz, Mini, BMW, Peugeot, Toyota, GM Holden, ISUZU, LDV, HAVAL, and other beloved classics. At the heart of our offering is the commitment to precision color-matching. We understand the importance of maintaining the integrity of your vehicle's original paint job, and that's why we source our paint from the esteemed Axalta Group. This ensures that every touch-up with our paint pens results in a flawless finish that seamlessly blends with the manufacturer's intended color. The Axalta Group's global reputation for excellence in automotive paint production speaks volumes about the caliber of the product you receive with our touch-up paint pens. Our commitment to quality extends beyond the renowned brands we cater to; it's a promise to all car enthusiasts and owners seeking perfection in every detail. What sets Automotive Touchup Paint Pens apart is not just the unparalleled precision in color matching but also the custom color-matching guarantee we provide. We understand that your vehicle is a reflection of your style and identity. With our custom color-matching guarantee, you can rest assured that the touch-up paint you receive will harmonize seamlessly with your car's unique hue. Whether you own a Mercedes-Benz, Mini, BMW, Peugeot, Toyota, GM Holden, ISUZU, LDV, HAVAL, or any other classic brand, our paint pens offer a solution that's as diverse as the automotive world itself. Trust in the expertise of the Axalta Group of Companies, a name synonymous with global recognition and innovation in car paint manufacturing. To learn more about our custom color-matching Guarantee and explore the comprehensive range of automotive touch-up paint pens, Elevate your car's aesthetic appeal with Automotive Touchup Paint Pens – where precision meets passion.