A few scratches in your paint job can make your car look like it’s falling apart, but it doesn’t have to stay that way forever. Whether you’re fixing scratches on your own or taking them to the professionals, there are several approaches to take, from filling the scratch with paint or other products to sanding and buffing it down completely. You can also remove scratches by using a rubbing compound, a scratch remover, or even some toothpaste!
Understanding paint
A light cut in your car’s paint may seem like a small thing, but because of the paint’s makeup, it can look more severe than it actually is. The topmost layer of a car’s color coat is made up of what’s called a ceramic coating. It’s essentially tiny pieces of glass suspended in resin that protect your vehicle from sun damage and weathering. Paint scratches will chip away at that ceramic, so getting rid of them before they reach that layer is essential.
Understanding ceramic coating
Ceramic coating is a clear layer that’s applied directly to your car’s finish. Ceramic coatings give paint protection, usually for 3-5 years. And yes, it actually replaces traditional waxes and sealants – but the ceramic coating is far more durable than either one of those products could ever be.
DIY options for removing scratches from your car
There are a number of DIY options for removing scratches from your car. Most can be completed in 30 minutes or less with everyday materials that you may already have lying around your house. Because these DIY methods utilize common household items, they aren’t as refined as professional scratch removal techniques and should only be used if there is not enough damage to warrant a professional job.
Professional ways to remove paint scratches from your car
Here are some ways that you can choose from when removing paint scratches from your car, depending on what sort of look you’re going for. Before proceeding with any type of repair, it’s important to understand that scratches in your car’s paint aren’t superficial defects—they get down into and onto your car’s metal body. That means that no matter how careful you are in repairing your car, there will always be a tiny amount of leftover damage.