Dull paint

[rblochli]

2012 Laramie took delivery the beginning of May, first time I washed it I noticed a dull horizontal 'stripe' on both sides of the truck in line with the RAM 1500 lettering on the door - almost looks like they missed the clear-coat in a 4 to 6 inch 'stripe' down both sides.

If you look at a reflection in the side of the truck, it is crystal clear at the top and as you move your head down, the reflection gets blurry then clear again. There are two shiny spots on the rear door on the driver's side and one on the rear door on the passenger side about the size of a half dollar in the middle of this 'stripe'.

It looks like it is dull behind The RAM 1500 letters and the fender flares where they meet the 'stripe'. Tail gate looked fine as does the rest of the truck. Truck is True Blue Pearl. Dealer agreed that it doesn't look right and took it to a body shop. The body shop doesn't think a wet sand and buff will do it and they want to re-paint. Dealer needs the District Manager to look at it before they can authorize that. I'm not so sure I want it repainted, a buddy of mine that restores cars thinks a wet sand and buff will do it. I don't want to touch it until the dealer figures out what they can do. Dealer and body shop seem to think it is a factory issue.

Any one hear of anything like this and what was the remedy? Should I be leery of a re-paint? Couldn't they try to buff and if that doesn't work, then resort to paint?

If I tried a small spot myself, what product should I try, something like 3M Finesse or Swirl Remover or would I need something more aggressive?

Sorry for the long post.

Thanks,

Bob

 

[BlackedOutHemi]

If you just got it take it to the dealer and let them deal with it. They have to fix it to your liking. If they missed clear coat you won't be able to buff it out.


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[S2kiHemi]

Just tell them you want a section wet sanded and buffed before they respray the truck. Surprised they didn't try to have it buffed first to see if that would fix the problem and save some $$$

 

[Rotzilla]

My 11 had paint issues, I agreed to let a authorized body shop to repaint the affected panels. That was 5 months ago, I have a thread on here somewhere.
Truck is still not to my satisfaction, dealer refused further service. BBB complaint filed and not resolved. Lemon law attorneys hired to attempt to resolve problems through Chrysler. Your owners manual probably states you have to go through arbitration before seeking legal remedy, this is BS you can have a atty represent you. ( if anyone needs a name and # PM me.)

My point is if they crack the factory paint it probably won't ever be as good as it is now. However without pictures we can't tell how bad your situation is.
If it is that bad or bothers you by all means shove it up their hooeys and break it off, use your warranty (sorry about the hostility)

If you choose to let them repair the paint I recommend the following;

Discuss with the dealer and body shop exactly what level of repair you expect to receive. (as good as factory paint)

Keep a log of your conversations, who, when, and what was discussed. What dates the truck was in the shop and for how long.

Inspect repairs as soon as possible. Truck isn't always clean enough when returned to see flaws. Document and photograph discrepincies and notify the dealer/shop asap.

If you repair I would get intouch with the Chrysler complaint department, get a case #, also your rep will be able to approve rental cars. If you have to take the vehicle to the shop more than once make the shop provide you with a rental car.

In closing document everything you may need it in the future. GL

 

[quietpeen]

unfortunately there have been a few members here with paint problems. Looks like Rotzilla give some great advise

 

[rblochli]

Thanks, I'll let you know how I make out.

Bob