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Old 07-31-2014, 11:02 AM   #9
Enders FRS
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Join Date: Apr 2014
Drives: FRS MT SE 10 edition
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That's touch up paint. If it feels gradual then it probably had a round of compound with a round of polish on top. Touch up paint HAS clear in it. It's part of the reason it's so hard to build up properly when repairing a chip. That's not a paint issue that effects certification.

Most dealerships use a tool to check if a car has been repainted. It measures the thickness of the paint. Uniform thickness in the .07-.09 range indicates factory paint jobs. If the variance is greater than .03 it warrants a closer inspection. Check all gaskets for overspray, check all body panels for vin stamp. If it has an "R" it's a replacement part that must have been painted. Run your fingers along the edge of every panel, they should all be smooth and free of the gritty feeling of overspray. Lexus/Toyota/scion permit up to two body panels with paintwork before flunking them. Touch ups do not count against those two panels. Neither do bumper covers. I used to work for a dealer so I'm very familiar with their process. By the way, Toyota does spot check them. And the fines for certifying a car that should not have been are extreme.


I don't think you have them by the balls, I think they are trying to work with you and aren't being ****s. You will probably get better service if you keep you're buyers remorse in check. You bought a USED car, it's not going to be a 0 mile unit fresh from Japan.


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