Car scratches are more than just cosmetic annoyances. Whether caused by parking in tight spots, brushing past trees or walls, or careless passersby, these marks can reduce your car’s resale value and ruin its overall look. Maintaining a clean, polished exterior increases your car’s appeal to buyers and can be especially important if the vehicle is under financing or a lease. A well maintained paint job directly affects the final evaluation of the car's condition. Today, we’ll walk you through simple and effective steps to fix those scratches like a pro.
Can you fix the scratch yourself?
Not all scratches require a trip to the body shop. Many light surface scratches can be treated at home using products like scratch removers or polishing agents such as T-Cut. Deeper scratches that reach the primer or bare metal might need professional repair, especially if they are in visible areas. In some cases, repair specialists can handle the damage directly at your location without the need to transport the car.
To evaluate the depth of the scratch, gently run your fingernail over it. If you can't feel a dip, the scratch is likely on the clear coat and can be polished away. However, if your nail catches, that means the damage has gone deeper, possibly into the base coat or primer, and may require expert attention.
Polishing Out Swirl Marks and Light Scratches
Swirl marks often appear after washing a car with a dirty sponge or rag and are most visible under sunlight. These micro abrasions can dull the car’s finish but are easily fixed. Start by washing and drying the car thoroughly. Then apply a small amount of polishing compound to a clean microfiber cloth. Gently rub the affected area in light circular motions. Buff out the residue with another clean cloth and repeat the process if needed. Finishing with a layer of wax helps seal in the shine and protect the surface from future damage.
Touch Up Paint Pens for Minor Chips
For small chips caused by road debris or peeling, touch up paint pens offer a simple solution. First, clean and dry the area thoroughly. Shake the pen to ensure the color is well mixed, then apply it carefully in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next.
Once complete, let the paint cure fully before applying a final clear coat for protection. Always use a pen that matches your car’s exact color code, usually found on a label inside the driver side door.
Dealing with Parking Lot Scuffs
Scuffs and scratches from light contact in parking lots are common. If the damage is limited to the surface, it can usually be repaired at home. For deeper gouges that expose primer or metal, complete repair kits are available. These typically include brushes, filler, polish, and matching paint.
Clean the area thoroughly, fill the scratch with the included brush, let it dry, and sand it lightly until smooth. Finish with polish and wax to restore the shine and protect the paint.
When to Call a Repair Technician
Some scratches are too complex for DIY methods. Specialists use advanced tools to fix only the damaged spot, preserving the surrounding paint. These technicians can often travel to your home or office, making the process more convenient and less time consuming.
Services may include scratch removal, dent repairs, and even wheel or mirror restoration. While more expensive than home kits, repairs are much cheaper than full body repaints and often deliver high quality results.
Adrian is an Editor. Psychology graduate with over 4 years in the automotive industry, 3 in front of the camera. Occasionally seen at his family owned tyre shop. He will only buy cars that pass the big bottle test.
