How to Fix a Scratched Disc

With a little time and proper care, you can attempt to fix your scratched discs.

There's no other way to describe it: Scratched discs are a pain in the neck. Whether it's a DVD, CD or game disc, there is something especially frustrating about not being able to watch a movie, listen to music or play a video game when you wish. Before attempting to fix the disc, however, you must take into account how valuable it is to you. If there is any information you fear losing, take the disc to a professional for repair. If you're willing to take a risk, though, you can attempt to salvage the disc yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Soft cloths (such as eyeglass-cleaning cloths or micro-fiber cloths)
• Brasso
• Car wax

Instructions

Clean First

1. Grasp the disc at the edges and examine the shiny surface. Specifically, look for any small bits of dirt, dust or other particles. Blow on the disc to remove any particles that are present.

2. Dampen a soft, non-abrasive cloth with warm water. After you ensure that you've removed all particles that may further scratch the surface, use the dampened cloth to wipe the disc clean. Sometimes a simple cleaning will allow a mildly scratched disc to work.

3. Place the disc in the CD player, DVD player or gaming console and attempt to play it. If the disc works, you do not have to proceed. If the disc does not work, you may attempt to remove the scratch.

Scratch Removal

1. Dab a clean, non-abrasive cloth into some Brasso. Use only a small amount. If necessary, you can always add some later.

2. Hold the disc by the edges once again. You do not want to touch the shiny surface with your fingers. Gently rub the Brasso onto the scratched area. Use small circular motions to buff out the scratch. Rub lightly, inspect the disc frequently and stop as soon as you notice that the scratch is beginning to fade.

3. Hold the disc under the faucet and run some warm water over it until all of the Brasso has been rinsed away. Allow the disc to air dry.

4. Dip a clean, soft cloth into some car wax and apply the wax to the entire shiny side of the disc. Again, use small circular motions while maintaining very light pressure.

5. Allow the wax to fully dry on the disc. Once it has dried, wipe the disc clean with a clean, non-abrasive cloth.

6. Insert the disc into your DVD player, CD player or gaming console. If the disc works, great. If, however, it fails to play, simply repeat the scratch-removal steps above.

References

• High Tech Edge: How to Remove Scratches from CDs and DVDs
• CD Repair: CD, DVD, PlayStation and Xbox Disc Repair