How to Remove Scratches From a Vinyl Convertible Window

A convertible is a desirable car to own, especially in the summertime or if you live in a warm climate. The car is attractive with the top up or down, but it looks especially good with the top down. The constant raising and lowering of a convertible top can cause creases in the vinyl windows. The windows also get scratched from keys and packages brushing against them. You can remove scratches from a vinyl convertible window with plastic filler.

Things You'll Need

• Dishwashing soap
• Warm water
• Bucket
• Sponge
• Plastic filler
• Small putty knife
• Plastic scraper
• 80-grit sandpaper
• Car wax
• 2 soft cloths

Instructions

1. Clean the vinyl convertible window thoroughly with 1/4 cup dishwashing soap mixed with warm water in a bucket. Use a sponge to clean the vinyl window with the cleaner. Especially clean well around the area of the scratches.

2. Apply plastic filler to the vinyl convertible window with a small putty knife. Place the plastic filler on the scratch and smooth it out with the putty knife. Make sure you have completely filled the scratch in the vinyl window with the plastic filler putty.

3. Remove any excess plastic filler with a plastic scraper. Cut the excess filler off from around the edges of the scratch, and remove the filler with your fingers. Allow the plastic filler 24 hours to harden. Be careful not to press too deeply on the window with the scraper.

4. Smooth the scratch with 80-grit sandpaper if the scratch remains bulky or raised. Smooth the plastic filler to make the scratch even with the rest of the vinyl convertible window.

5. Apply a tiny amount of car wax to a clean, soft cloth, and buff over the scratched area you filled with the plastic filler putty.

6. Remove any excess car wax with a clean cloth.

References

• "Auto Upkeep: Basic Car Care, Maintenance, and Repair;" Michael E. Gray; 2007