So, you found a scratch on your car. How to do? While the Internet may suggest using toothpaste to remove scratches from car paint, choose a product designed to remove them. Here are some tips on identifying scratches, picking and applying automotive scratch remover to suit your needs, and when to take it to an expert.
How to identify the type of scratch
The first step in car scratch repair is to determine the type of scratch you want to deal with. Today, most cars come with three coats of paint: primer, paint, and a high-gloss clear coat. Surface scratches with protective clear coatings are easiest to repair at home, while deep scratches may require professional help.
Experts say the best way to identify the type of scratch is to cover it with your nail. If you do not feel it, it may be a scratch on the surface of the clear coating and can be repaired at home. If you can feel the scratch but your nail is not caught, then a good car scratch polish will usually solve the problem. Deeper scratches where the nail is stuck or where primer or metal penetration can be seen may require a more complex repair process.
Methods for selecting automobile scratch remover
Hardware and automotive supply stores stock a variety of scratch removal kits and automotive scratch polish. Knowing which to choose can be confusing. For minor scratches, a good polish will suffice. These products are usually applied by hand to safely remove scratches and swirl marks from a car's clear coating. For larger scratches, you may need to use a scratch removal kit. Kits usually include sandpaper or polishing pads to help you wipe away scratches. Some even include pads that can be attached to the drill bit to speed up the polishing process. Always ask the salesperson for advice on the type of scratches on the vehicle.
How to help polish a scratch on a car
If you have identified a surface scratch that needs to be repaired yourself, the next step is to prepare the scratch area.
Thoroughly wash and dry the area you intend to polish, making sure to remove any dirt or debris. If there is residual dirt, you may run the risk of causing more damage to the car paint.
Next, read the instructions on the polishing or scratch removal kit.
Apply a small amount of product to a clean microfiber cloth or polishing pad, clean in a circular motion, and wipe off excess polish. Be sure to use a light touch to avoid damaging the clear coat.
Protect the newly polished area with good quality car wax.
When to call in an expert
While most of us would like to avoid an expensive trip to a garage, sometimes it is necessary for the health of your car. Scratches deep enough to metal rust easily and should be treated promptly. Also, if your car is painted with matte paint, polishing scratches may leave shiny patches on the exterior of the car. To maintain a unique matte finish, it is best to call a dealer or auto paint specialist.