Stone Chipping Cars affected: Mainly later Evo’s Symptom: Stone chips on the paintwork. Problem and cure: It seems certain paints on the Evo’s are more susceptible to chipping than others. The front of the Evo’s are very upright to allow for the intercooler and therefore it’s more prone to stone chips than other saloon cars. The Evo 5 introduced rear arch extensions due to the wider track and unfortunately, these also do suffer from stone chips due to stones being thrown up from the front wheels. Obviously it is a good idea to keep on top of the stone chips by using a ‘touch up’ paint stick. Also consider ‘chip sticks’ which are solid coloured polish sticks which do much the same thing except not as permanent, good for a quick fix. For protecting the rear arch extensions then fitting front mud flaps can help deflect the stones back onto the road. It is also worth considering preventing the stone chips in the first place by fitting clear plastic protection film on the vulnerable areas. Companies such as ‘Armafend’ supply and fit this. Approximate cost of repair: Clear Protection film - £200+ Back to question page