Have you recently noticed some unwanted scratches appear on your new whip?
Fear not! There are a few steps you can take to quickly fix scratches on car surfaces with ease.
Let’s get into it.
Let’s Talk Layers
In order to properly address and fix scratches on car exteriors, it is important to first address how deep the cut actually goes.
The paint on your car is actually composed of several layers.
Just like when you get a cut or laceration, depending on the severity and depth of the cut, different types of stitching and bandaging must take place.
How Do You Determine the Depth of the Scratch?
If you chipped the clear coat of your paint, you’re in luck. Nine times out of ten, you won’t see these chips.
When the scratch takes off the clear and paint coat, that’s most likely what brought you to this article. You’ve noticed a chunk out of your car’s paint and are frantically trying to find a fix.
How to Fix Scratches on Car Surfaces: Shallow
Repairing a scratch on a car doesn’t have to be intimidating. This process can be broken down.
Firstly, in order to effectively repair any type of scratch, it is important to thoroughly clean the body of the car. This provides a clean canvas for optimal repair.
Sand It Down!
Once cleaned, it’s now time to sand down the scratched area. Sanding removes any remaining debris and smoothes the area for the paint to be applied in an even layer.
For this part of the repair process, you might even be able to use toothpaste!
Granules in toothpaste have abrasive characteristics, similar to sandpaper. In small circular motions, sand down the surrounding area.
If the area is bigger than a little knick, you will need to use sandpaper. After you’ve sanded the scratch, rinse off the area to remove any remaining paint or debris.
Smooth it Down With A Rubbing Compound
Once you’ve sanded down the area, apply a rubbing compound. With a hand towel, rub rubbing compound into the scratch in a circular motion. This compound is similar to sanding, but further aids in smoothing the scratch down to an even surface.
With a clean, damp towel, remove the rubbing compound once you’ve scratched the scrape out of the paint. At this point, it’s time to re-add another clear coat.
Clear the Way for the Clear Coat!
This clear coat seals in the repaired area, preventing potential future scratches. After your clear coat, you can wash your car and voila!
Your scratch should be as good as gone.
How to Fix Scratches on Car Surfaces: Deep
Cleaning deep scratches are similar to shallow scratches with a few added steps. To begin repairing deep scratches, you can follow the first few steps of the shallow scratches. Begin by washing the surrounding area and sanding down the scratch.
Instead of using a rubbing compound at this point, you can locate your car’s color code and find a matching automotive touch-up kit.
Scuff the Scene
Once you’ve found the adequate touch-up kit, it’s time to scuff the surface of your car with a scuff pad.
Scuff pads can typically be found in the touch-up kit but can also be found at most automotive stores. This will aid in breaking down the scratch to a point where it can be repaired from the deepest part.
After you’ve scuffed down the area, rinse it to remove any debris.
Paint Like You Mean It
With your first layer of paint, make sure it touches all edges of the scratch and allow 20 minutes for the paint to dry thoroughly.
Once that layer of paint has dried, paint on thin layers until the color matches the car color. Make sure to allow enough drying time between every layer.
When you feel that the color has been restored to its original shade, you can reapply the clear coat. This typically comes in an aerosol form that can be sprayed directly on the affected surface.
Now that your clear coat is dry, don’t forget to re-wax the area. This seals in the repair and prevents anymore scratches.
You’re good to go!
After following these steps, your scratch should be completely fixed and ready to face the road again.
If you’d like an expert’s opinion, feel free to look for a DMCA approved, qualified professional in your area. They’d love to give you a helping hand.
If you have a general question about auto body repairs, why not send us a quick message!