I dunno why or how but the paint around the handle on my tailgate is dull...i guess thats the best way to describe it....

Anyway to get this back to looking like the rest of the paint?

 

check this out:

https://www.f150online.com/forums/sh...d.php?t=339609

 

its not the handle that is dull.
it's the red paint all around the handle area

 

I see it.. Look at the reflections and how dull it is around the handle.

Maybe try scratch-x? If it's oxidation that should work.

I'll let thump and others respond with some better information for ya tho

 

I see it, can you get close-up pictures though? If it is oxidation, then there are a bunch of products that you can use.

 

did the best i could

 

Has anything seen the body shop? It looks like overspray..

If it is, then clay should remove it.

Also, the paint would feel much different than all the other areas.. It'd feel rough.

 

not since it's been in my posession but i bought it used in Sept 07 and i think it was already like that

 

My bet is that it has to do with grimy hands touching it all the time... Its hard to explain, but if I could show you, I would-- a lot of people end up touching that area of paint when opening and especially closing the tailgate.

My recommendations:

clay it
Scratch-X and/or color-X.

If that doesnt get it, let us know and we'd be glad to take this a step farther.

 

okay where do i get clay?

 

any autopart store will have some

 

Wal-mart usually has it. The Meguiar's kit is really nice because it comes with the clay, quick detailer, and a microfiber all for about $15. Here is what you are looking for.

http://meguiars.com/estore/product_l...ectionID=11201

 

thank you!
i'll get it and give it a try

 

oh, i forgot, it also comes with a little bottle of Meguiar's Cleaner wax too.

 

Yep I would try clay then some Color-X.

Just refinished a 14 year old car that was very faded and oxidized with clay and #80 and it worked wonders.