How to Fix Scratches On Your Car

Scratches on your cars finish can be very frustrating, not to mention unsightly. The good news is that most scratches can be fixed by following some simple steps. This article will help you with diagnosing a scratch and fixing it.

Instructions

1. DIAGNOSING YOUR "SCRATCH"
   Some scratches are not really scratches at all. The "fingernail test" is the best way to determine if you truly have a scratch. Run your fingernail across the defect to determine if the surface is gouged or stuck on top of the surface. If the defect protrudes from the surface it can usually be removed with a solvent cleaner. Try adhesive remover or acetone for stubborn marks.

2. SURFACE SCRATCHES
   Some scratches that affect only the surface of your clearcoat. In this case, it is sometimes possible to fix it with the use of a rubbing and polishing compound. Lightly apply the rubbing compound with a rag in a circular motion. Then, buff the area with a clean rag to remove the rubbing compound. Next, apply polishing compound to remove the fine scratches left by the rubbing compound. Then you can seal the surface with a good quality car wax.

3. DEEPER SCRATCHES
   For deeper scratches, where color is still visible through the clearcoat (primer or metal not visible), you will need to sand the scratch out. This can be a delicate task because you will need to sand the surrounding area down to the scratch without sanding through the paint. A good trick is to get some shoe polish in a contrasting color to your paint color. This will make sure you don't sand too far. First make sure the surface is clean and dry (soapy water works well), then work the shoe polish into the scratch.

4. Using an ultrafine wet/dry sandpaper (2000-3000 grit), lightly sand the area along the length of the scratch. Rinse the sandpaper frequently with cool water and work slowly until you see the shoe polish color disappear. Dry the area and inspect it to ensure the scratch has been removed. Then, buff the area with rubbing compound with a power buffer or cloth rag. Next, remove the dried compound with a sort rag in a circular motion.

5. Finally, use polishing compound pad, buff the entire area, then seal with a good quality car wax.