Struggling to remove scratches from your car body that make it unattractive? This article is for you. We will explain how to remove different kinds of scratches from your car body using the best methods. Moreover, we will also tell you how to avoid these scratches further. So, let’s start
How to remove scratches from car body at home
You can remove scratches minor or surface level from your car body at home, by using home remedies like toothpaste, nail polish, baking soda and vinegar. Applying these methods in an effective way helps to achieve your goal. The detailed information about these methods are given below:
DIY Methods to remove surface level scratches from the car
- Use toothpaste
Yes, toothpaste is not just a teeth cleaning partner, it is also good in scratches removal. Toothpaste has natural abrasiveness that helps to remove surface level (minor) scratches. To apply this method make sure the area must be clean and dry using a soft cloth and then apply toothpaste to a microfiber cloth and rub in circular motion into the scratch. And apply this 2 to 3 times until the scratch disappears.
- Use nail polish
Nail polish is also a good scratch remover. Some scratches can’t be removed by sanding or buffing, so the easiest solution is to cover them. Nail polishes are available in a variety of colours. Choose the closest colour to your car. Apply in the affected area and allow it to dry. When it dries, buff it with clean soft cloth and scratch will be invisible.
- Use Baking soda
Another popular method is baking soda to repair minor scratches from the car. Create a paste of baking soda with water. Apply the paste on scratch in circular motion with a clean cloth. Wash out and dry.
- Use vinegar
Vinegar is a common household product that can also help to remove minor scratches from your car body at home. Mix water and vinegar in a bowl in equal ratio, rub it on the affected area with a clean cloth and then wash out with clean water. Apply this method multiple times to see results.
- Candle wax
Candle wax is also a method to cover scratches. First clean the damaged area and then rub candle wax on it. This method will seal and cover scratch. Candle wax is a quick solution to cover scratch, but not a long-term solution.
Remember, if scratches are minor then easily be removed by these DIY methods at home in no time. You need to repeat these methods to get expected results. If you don’t have time and patience then simply use professional products or get detailing services. Below more techniques are mentioned that can remove scratches from your car.
Scratch removal products to remove small car scratches
- Meguiar’s Mirror Glaze Ultra-Cut
- Chemical Guys VSS
- Shine Armor Revive
- Carfidant Ultimate
- 3M Scratch Removal System
The above mentioned products are the best to remove minor scratches from your car body. Here we will explain complete details about the products
| Product | Price | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Meguiar’s Mirror Glaze Ultra-Cut | 13.28$ (8 Oz) | It removes scratches , swirl marks, and paint imperfections from car exterior.
This can be used by hand or buffer. If you want excellent results use a buffer. |
| Chemical Guys VSS | 19.97$ (16 Oz) | It removes minor or medium scratches and swirls. This product provides ease of cleaning. |
| Shine Armor Revive | 7.99$ (4 Oz) | Removes minor scratches from your car body like fingernails, swirl marks. Not good for sun damage. |
| Carfidant Ultimate | 21.97$ | It is the most popular product for removing scratches, swirl marks, and paint imperfections. Known for its quality, performance, ease of removal, and ease of cleaning, it has a long history of success. It comes with a liquid and scrubber. |
| 3M scratch removal system | 23.50$ | Best for minor scratches and scuff marks. It also comes with a liquid and scrubber |
How do I use scratches remover?
Scratches remover products are good enough for minor and medium level scratches on your car. But many people not getting expected results due to not following proper techniques are instructions that come with the remover kit. Please read the instructions properly that come with it to get better results. If you are not satisfied, go to the product website and ask your query. Here we will discuss some best techniques that help you to achieve best results. Keep reading.
Clean the area: First step is to clean the affected part of your car with soap and water, and dry it properly. Because dirt on your car can cause more scratches.
Apply compound (scratch remover): Apply a small amount of compound on a microfiber cloth and rub it on the affected part in a circular motion. How to ensure the amount of compound needed to apply? For this read the instructions come with scratch remover. Continue to rub until the scratch disappears. You need to apply compound multiple times to get the expected result. Be patient, this step will take some time and effort.
Rinse the area: Once the scratch is removed. Use a soft and clean cloth to rinse the compound. If the scratch is still left, reapply the compound again.
Wash the area again: use water and clean cloth to wash the area again to remove the compound.
Wax the area: Wax the area to seal the paint you have repaired.
Remember, the products that you can use to remove scratches are not hard on the pocket. They will cost you between 8$ – 25$ that can easily remove minor or medium scratches. But this requires some effort and time. Because you need to repeat steps for good results. If you have time and can make an effort for your car. Then the above mentioned products and techniques can definitely remove scratches from your car body at home.
Painting to remove deep scratches
Thoroughly wash and dry the car: In the process of scratch repair, if your car is dirty, that dirt could cause more scratches. Make sure you thoroughly wash your car to remove all dirt and debris. If you want to make sure the scratched area is clean, rinse it a couple more times.
Don’t forget to pay attention to the area you are going to repair. Spray water on the scratched area to remove any debris. Clean the area thoroughly with soap that is specifically designed for use on cars, then rinse it with clean water.
Sand the scratched area to remove the paint upper layer: Sand the scratched area using 2000-grit wet/dry sandpaper wrapped around a sanding pad (a handle-mounted holder for the sandpaper). If the area needs to be deeper sanded, continue sanding for 10 to 15 seconds at a time.
- When sanding, follow the scratch’s direction. Make sure not to create opposing scratches, because this will only add more ridges and valleys to the paint.
- Wash the area with water to check the progress.
- In the case of scratches slightly deeper than the clear coat, use 1500-grit sandpaper as a levelling tool and then 2000-grit sandpaper once the scratches caused by the coarse sandpaper have been removed.
- Make sure to avoid dirt between sandpaper and your car. This leads to more scratches.
Rinse and dry the area: Wash the dust after sanding the scratch area. Then use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe the car surface dry.
- Avoid using dirty clothes. Because they cause more scratches on the car surface.
Prime the sanded area with sandable primer: Use an aerosol can of sandable primer. You should spray primer on the area you just sanded. Spray the paint in a back-and-forth motion. Let the primer dry for 5 to 10 minutes before applying another layer. Repeat the steps three times.
- If it is possible, select the primer closer to the colour of your car paint. It will improve the look of your car paint.
Remember, The above mentioned techniques are followed by car experts and detailers, to make your car look better and fresh. If you want to remove scratches from your car body then first identify scratch type and then follow technique according to scratch will definitely work for you.
You can use detailing to remove scratches from your car body and maintain its look like a brand new car.
How to prevent scratches on your car?
Regularly car wash with right method:
Regular car wash is important to prevent scratches. The best method is using hand-wash. But make sure to use the right products. Some people use sponge and washing detergents, it damages your car paint. Always use car washing mitt professional car washing foams, that are designed to protect your car paint and prevent it from scratches.
Drying techniques:
Drying technique is also an important part to prevent scratches, many people neglect it. Most people think cars can dry naturally. This may lead to water spots and cause scratches. The best way is pat dry or dry it using clean and soft microfiber cloth.
Avoid automatic car wash:
Automatic car wash uses harsh chemicals and abrasive brushes that are the cause of swirls marks and scratches on your car body. And reduce the protective waxes against car paint.
Drive your car carefully:
Careful driving techniques not only save your car from scratches, but also save your life. It’s important to relearn proper driving techniques like maintain distance between cars while driving, road laws, parking methods, leave proper space between stationary objects etc. Most scratches are caused while driving or parking, you can easily avoid them if you drive carefully.
Parking spot:
If you park your car in rushy areas like the street or parking of apartments, you must be focused to maintain some distance between your car and others. Because many people do not pay attention while parking or door opening causes damage to paint work or some deep scratches.
Use car cover:
If your car is parked in an open area, you need to use a car cover to protect it from scratches. Packed your car with cover, because in open parking areas, birds drop, water spots, acid-rain, and UV rays of sun majorly damage your car paint and cause scratches on your car body.
Use paint protection film:
PPF acts as a strong shield against scratches, swirl marks and other harmful particles in environments. You can not only save your car’s appearance by also preserving its resale value and fresh look for a long-time. The PPF will last for 5 to 10 years.
Use ceramic coating:
Ceramic coating also protects your car from minor scratches, swirl marks, and maintains its shine and gloss. Ceramic coating is not a full-proof solution against scratches, but safe from minor scratches. Professional coating will last more than 7 years.
Inspect your car regularly:
Regular car inspection is important to get rid of scratches. Inspect your car regularly, if any scratch or rust appears make sure to fix it as soon as possible to prevent major damage.
Remember, The above mentioned steps do not take too much effort, but benefits you in the long-run to save your car appearance and prevent it from minor or deep scratches.
FAQs:
Cost to remove the scratches on my car?
Cost to remove scratches from your car body depends on the type of scratch. Minor scratches can be removed home remedies or scratches removal products that cost between $10 – $30. The clear coat scratches are deeper than minor scratches and require sanding and polishing work, it will cost you between $100 – $300. While the paint scratch cost between $400 – $800. Because It need extra paint work. And the deep scratches cost between $800 – $1500.
Does a magic eraser remove car scratches?
Yes, a magic eraser can remove scratches from the car body, but only minor scratches. It is not effective for deep scratches, because deep scratches require extra work like sanding, polishing, and paint work.
What is the best polish to remove scratches on a car?
Meguiar car scratches remover is the best polish to remove scratches from your car body. This removes minor and medium level scratches, and it costs between $13 and $15. In addition to removing minor imperfections, it can also remove defects and swirl marks from paint.
Does toothpaste ruin car paint?
Your car’s paint can be damaged by toothpaste if you rub it too hard and too much. Too much pressure will remove the clear coat, exposing the paint. Therefore, be careful when you do this home remedy.
