Rant on....Well I have not had this car long and already the front of it is getting marred up pretty bad. I clean the bugs off on a very regular basis and Every week I see a new nick or chip from a frakin' stone. It seems this thing is a magnet for stones smoking the bumper and hood. I did not have enough money for a 3M clear bra when it was brand new and I am now regretting it. At this rate the front end of my car is going to look like total crap in a few years!!

 

I got a nose mask, jury's still out on permanent status. You have to not hate the look but it seems to work, though I can't see all the hooks and snaps lasting very long.

 

This is a commuter car for me, not a garage queen so I knew it'd get lots of bugs and chips. So far lots of bugs and a few chips in about 10k.

As far as car bras, I've never been a fan. I've seen them do a lot of damage underneath when they rub on the paint.

 

It's a machine. A tool. Either frame it and hang it on a wall or use the damn thing.

 

Yeah I knew it would chip up for me too but I guess it's been so long since I have had a low car that I am not expecting it to happen so fast. And not a fan of the bras either. They do damage the paint quick if not taken on and off frequently. YMMV.

 

You are so cool.

 

double post

 

I agree on the "ignore the small stuff and drive it" philosophy, but it does seem the new 3-coat paint process is producing an inferior finish that is subject to chipping.

With a plastic front end, it would be really nice if they would make the plastic underneath the same color as the paint!

 

I agree that there is something up with the paint. I know the first batch that came out had a BUNCH of paint issues where dealerships had to get parts re-painted due to the paint peeling off.

I have a bunch of rock chips on my hood and have only owned the car for a year. the GF has a ford focus and drives more then I do and has NO rock chips.

Also, the paint in certain areas have Fish eyes and is not smooth. I might bring it up next time I am at the dealership.

 

I had the same issue with my previous 2012 civic. Chips galore on the hood and front end. With my Fit, strangely, I don't have that issue.

 

Just wait...

 

Yes the paint seems awfully brittle. It might be a blessing if it does fall off so it gets repainted. Time will tell, but I'm still wishing I had a enough coin for a clear bra. It's too late now. So any potential buyers out there try and negotiate a clear bra into the price

 

I agree that the car is to be used and enjoyed... but i also think there's something seriously off with the paint. I have more chips, cracks, and other imperfections in this car that i've owned for about 4 months, one of which (cumulatively), the car spent being repaired (don't get me started on that), than I have in my 7 year old BMW. I don't think this is normal.

That said... if you're worried and you think nose masks are ugly... get a full detail to fix everything that can be fixed, then get a proper clear bra applied as mentioned above. It's what I should have done with all my cars with each purchase. It's a good chunk of cash, but if you're anal like me, it might be worth saving the headaches and annoyance.