Can Low-Speed Branches Scratch Car Paint?
4 Answers
Low-speed branches may cause minor scratches on the car paint. It's obviously not suitable to claim through car insurance, nor is it necessary to go to a car beauty shop for repair. However, if minor scratches on the car are left untreated, they can easily lead to rust on the car paint surface, which is detrimental to future maintenance. Therefore, it is advisable to use a touch-up pen or toothpaste for treatment. Below is additional information: 1. If the rust is not severe, you can first use very fine water sandpaper dipped in water to gently remove the rust spots, but avoid grinding randomly without direction—always grind in straight lines in the same direction. After completely cleaning the area, apply a layer of primer. 2. If the original factory paint is not available, you can purchase a touch-up pen and use it for color application. 3. You can also use ordinary toothpaste to treat the scratches. When you notice new small scratches on the car body, gently apply the toothpaste in circular motions over the scratched area.
Last time I was backing into a parking space at a very slow speed, but still got a scratch on the car body from a dead tree branch on the roadside. Upon closer inspection after getting out of the car, I noticed fine white scratches. Low speed doesn’t necessarily mean safety, because the surface of the branch might be thorny or rough, and the car paint is thin and soft—any contact can cause minor damage. It’s even more dangerous when the wind blows, as the branches sway and scrape against the paint. To avoid this, I now park away from densely wooded areas and regularly wax the car to protect the paint. Tree sap can also corrode the paint, so after a low-speed scratch, it’s advisable to wash it immediately with soapy water. Light scratches can be repaired with polishing paste. The key is to choose a good driving path and avoid getting the car body too close to roadside vegetation.
After driving for many years, I've come to deeply realize that even low-speed contact with tree branches can scratch the car paint. Branches aren't smooth, their edges are sharp, and car paint is fragile in texture—any friction can leave marks. Tree sap has strong adhesion, and if not cleaned promptly, it may accelerate oxidation and rust. For prevention, I've developed the habit of driving slowly in narrow sections to observe tree positions and parking away from areas with overhanging branches. For scratches, car wax can be applied to cover them, and regular car washes help reduce residue risks. Overall, slowing down reduces but doesn't eliminate the risk; maintaining distance is key.
Low-speed branches can indeed scratch car paint, as evidenced by the few shallow marks left on my car. Branches are hard while car paint is soft, so even slight pressure during contact can cause scratches. It's advisable to park away from wooded areas or clear surrounding branches. Minor scratches can be polished out, while severe damage may require repainting. Regular protective measures are essential.
