Car scratches can be frustrating for every car owner. Be it a minor cuff caused by a light brush with an object or a deep slash from an accident, every scratch on a car’s body can feel like a big deal. These scratches diminish your car’s sleek appearance and often come with a time-consuming and costly repair process.
In reality, learning how to remove scratches from a car is an easy skill to master and can be a valuable one for frequent drivers. It is important to understand that not every scratch is removable by hand. Some scratches may be deeper, requiring professional repair.
How to remove a scratch from your car in simple steps
It is important to know if you can fix the scratch yourself or need professional help. You can handle the repair for small and manageable scratches. You simply need to follow a step-by-step process that requires a certain combination of tools and materials. Let’s learn.
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Step 1: Examine and Identify the Scratch
To begin, determine the scratch severity. Car paint is put on in 3 layers: the primer, the base layer, and the clear coat. You need to identify which paint layer the scratch has penetrated.
- The primer is the first layer on the car’s metal body. Its role is to prepare a uniform base for the base paint layer to be applied. It also helps in protecting the car’s body from corrosion.
- Next, we have the base layer, the second layer of a car’s paint. It gives the car its main colour and is usually applied in multiple coats to ensure a uniform look.
- Finally, we have the clear coat or the finishing coat, which gives the car a glossy, polished look.
Any one of these layers can get scratched. Here are a few identifiers:
- Primer scratch: Since the primer is the deepest layer, scratches that go this deep are more severe and can be harder to repair. A clear identification mark is a grey-white appearance and peeled-off layers of paint around the scratch. If not fixed, these scratches could start rusting.
- Base layer scratch: Base layer scratches are easier to remedy and spot. Unlike primer scratches, base coat scratches don’t reveal the car’s metal surface.
- Clear coat scratch: The most easy-to-remove scratches are ones that only affect the top coat. They are barely visible unless you inspect them closely.
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Step 2: Gather Your Supplies
You might require different supplies depending on the scratch type:
- Light abrasive compound: For small scratches on the clear coat.
- Touch-up paint: For scratches deep into the base coat and primer.
- Clear coat scratch fix kit: For scratches on clear coats.
- Polishing compound: For tiny, shallow scratches.
- Clay bar: For minor scratches and surface contaminants.
- Primer and paint pen: For more severe scratches that show through the primer layer.
- Water and soap: To clean the area.
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Step 3: Clean the Area
Before you start treating your car scratches, scrub the scratch with water and soap to ensure that there is no dirt or debris in the scratched area. Then, ensure that the scratch surface is dry before proceeding.
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Step 4: Remove the Scratch
How you remove scratches from your car will depend upon the type of scratch you are treating.
- For Clear Coat Scratches: Use a mild abrasive compound or perhaps a clear coat scratch repair kit. Take the compound, and with the help of a soft towel, rub it in a circular motion around the scratch. Eliminate excess compound with a paper towel. You can also use a clay bar to fix minor scratches. Start by cleaning the area with a clay bar lubricant, then gently rub the clay bar over the surface to smooth it out. Finally, wipe the area clean with a microfiber cloth for a polished finish.
- For Scratches in the Paint or the Base Coat: Apply touch-up paint to match your car's colour. Make sure that you paint in thin layers and let each layer dry prior to applying the next. Cover with a clear coat to seal the repair.
- For Primer Scratches: It’s advisable to consult a professional for deep, tough primer scratches. However, if you are confident about doing it yourself and have some experience with the process, apply the primer and then use the paint pen to restore the colour. Let the primer dry first before filling in the scratch. Finish it up with a clear coat.
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Step 5: Polish and Protect Your Car
After the scratch is treated, buff the spot with a polishing compound to make it look new. Use a clean towel to rub the compound in a circular motion. At last, apply wax to seal the repaired area and keep your vehicle looking great.
Conclusion
While accidental scratches on the road are unavoidable, you can always learn to fix them yourself with the right tools and techniques. Even though a DIY kit is cost-effective, professional detailing and paintwork in certain situations may be needed for severe damage.
While prevention is better than dealing with damage, it is essential to take proactive measures to ensure peace of mind. Invest in a comprehensive car insurance policy that provides financial aid for a range of unexpected events, including scratches. The right policy will help you avoid hefty costs and ensure coverage in case of accidents, theft, and severe damages that require professional attention.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.