Scratches on your car can be frustrating and take away from its overall look and value. Whether it’s a small scuff or a deep scratch, knowing how to fix car scratches can save you both time and money. This guide will show you simple ways to repair car scratches, from easy DIY fixes to professional options.
Types of Car Scratches and How to Identify Them
Before repairing a scratch, it’s important to determine its severity. Here are the main types of scratches:
1. Clear Coat Scratches
- The most common and least severe scratches.
- Affect only the top layer of the car’s paint.
- Usually caused by dirt, dust, or improper washing techniques.
2. Paint Scratches
- Slightly deeper scratches that go past the clear coat and into the paint layer.
- Often caused by keys, tree branches, or minor collisions.
- Requires more advanced repair techniques.
3. Deep Scratches (Primer or Bare Metal Damage)
- Needs professional repair to prevent rust and further damage.
- The most severe type of scratch, reaching the primer or metal layer.
- Usually caused by accidents, sharp objects, or heavy impact.
How To Fix Car Scratches
1 . Use Toothpaste for Light Scratches
Toothpaste is an inexpensive and easy way to remove clear coat scratches.
How to apply:
- Repeat if needed.
- Wash the scratched area with soap and water.
- Apply a small amount of non-gel toothpaste to a microfiber cloth.
- Rub in a circular motion for about 30-60 seconds.
- Wipe off the residue and check if the scratch is less visible.
2. Try a Scratch Removal Kit
- Good for light to moderate scratches
- Comes with polishing compounds and microfiber cloths
How to use:
- Wipe off excess product and check the results.
- Wash and dry the scratched area.
- Apply the scratch remover with a microfiber cloth.
- Rub in circular motions to buff out the scratch.
3. Use Touch-Up Paint for Paint Scratches
- Helps cover scratches that reach the paint layer
- Restores the original color
How to apply:
- Let it dry, then apply a clear coat for protection.
- Clean and dry the area.
- Lightly sand the scratch with fine sandpaper.
- Apply primer if the scratch is deep.
- Use matching touch-up paint with a small brush.
4. Wet Sanding & Polishing for Deeper Scratches
- Works for paint scratches and deeper marks
- Helps smooth the surface and restore shine
Steps to wet sand a scratch:
- Finish with a wax coating to protect the paint.
- Use 2000-grit sandpaper soaked in water.
- Gently sand the scratched area in one direction.
- Wipe the surface and check the progress.
- Apply a rubbing compound to polish the area.
5. Professional Auto Body Repair for Severe Scratches
- Best for deep scratches that expose metal
- Ensures a long-lasting and high-quality repair
Why choose professional repair?
- Guarantees a flawless finish.
- Experts use advanced techniques like buffing, paint blending, and respraying.
- Prevents rust and permanent damage.
If you’re looking for the best auto body repair shops in Cebu, Onad Paintworks and Body Kits specializes in professional scratch removal and car paint restoration, ensuring your vehicle looks brand new.
How to Prevent Future Scratches
- Wash your car properly – Use microfiber cloths and avoid rough sponges.
- Apply a ceramic coating – Adds a protective layer to prevent scratches.
- Use a car cover – Shields your car from dust, debris, and accidental scrapes.
- Park carefully – Avoid tight spaces where your car is at risk of being scratched.
Now that you know how to fix car scratches, you can choose the best method depending on the severity of the damage. While DIY fixes work for minor scratches, deeper ones need professional care to restore your car’s appearance and value.
For expert scratch removal and car painting services, trust Onad Paintworks and Body Kits to bring your car back to perfection!
Need a professional fix? Contact us today!