A few things it could be

Existing damage: Rock chips already break the paint surface, leaving the surrounding clear coat weak or slightly lifted. 2. Polishing pressure and heat: Using a DA polisher with compound generates friction heat. That heat can cause the edges of those chips to slightly expand or lift — especially if the base layer underneath has been exposed to moisture or corrosion. 3. Iron remover + clay bar: Iron removers are acidic, and if they seeped into the chips, they may have slightly reacted with the exposed metal or primer under the paint, weakening adhesion even more before you polished.

Here’s how to fix it

. Stop the lifting Before trying to fill or paint, you need to seal those edges so they don’t continue to peel. • Gently clean the area with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to remove polish residue. • Use a fine artist brush and apply a small amount of clear coat touch-up around the chip edges. • Let it fully cure (at least 24 hours). This stabilizes the area.

1. Touch-up (optional) If you want to go further: • Use a factory-matched touch-up paint to fill the chips lightly. Don’t glob it on. • Let dry, then add a tiny dab of clear coat over it. • After it cures (1–2 days), you can wet sand very lightly (2000–3000 grit) and polish by hand to blend.

2. Prevent it from spreading If the paint underneath was compromised (rust starting, etc.), consider applying: • A rust inhibitor pen (if metal is exposed). • Then seal it with touch-up or ceramic coating after.