How to Repair a Car Paint Scratch
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2-4 hours
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Intermediate
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- 25-50
A car paint scratch is simple to correct. Depending on how deep the scratch is, and the size, the scratch may be easy to repair without spending a fortune at an auto body shop. Here's what you can do if you have an ugly scratch you want to get rid of.
Step 1 - Clean
A lot of damage can be restored just by cleaning off the dirt and the dust that is in the surrounding area. Once you have completely cleaned the area, look to see if you can see the color of the car underneath or if there is just a white surface. If it's white, then you only have some surface damage. This is something that can be easily remedied.
Step 2 - Use a Rubbing Compound
You are now ready to move on to the rubbing compound. This is something that you will be able to get at an automotive store. It is a good idea to get a small buffing pad along with it. Using a washcloth or a paper towel could further damage your vehicle’s finish. You will begin by putting an amount no larger than a nickel to the offending area. Rub it in with the buffing pad. You will need to do this gently but still apply some pressure. Get the area rubbed in with a circular motion to make sure that you get the full effect. After you have rubbed it all in, wipe away any excess with a soft cloth and look to see if any further steps need to be taken. If it was a small scratch, then you may be able to be finished here.
Step 3 - Automotive Paint
If you have rubbed in the compound and you still see some difference in the color, then you may need to get some paint to apply to it. Get some automotive paint from your local automotive shop. Make sure that it matches the color of your car or you will end up having a bigger problem. You will need to know the make and model and year of your vehicle as well as the color so that you can match it completely.
Whenever you are applying the paint, make sure that you first get any excess paint off the brush before you begin. After you have done this, you will need to apply a very thin layer to begin with. You do not want to put too much paint on the surface because it will then be a raised layer of paint that will stand out from the rest.
