You can often buff out light car scrapes yourself if the damage hasn't penetrated the base coat. The key is to assess the scratch depth first. Run your fingernail over it; if it doesn't catch, the scratch is likely only in the clear coat and can be polished out. For deeper scratches that reach the colored paint layer, professional repainting is usually required.
Gather the right supplies: You'll need a dual-action polisher (safer for beginners than a rotary buffer), a few foam polishing pads, a dedicated automotive rubbing compound for heavier defects, a finer polishing compound, and detail spray. Microfiber towels are essential for wiping away residue.
Start by thoroughly washing and drying the scratched area. Any dirt left on the surface will be ground into the paint during buffing, creating more scratches. Apply a small amount of rubbing compound to the pad and work on a section about two feet square. Keep the polisher moving steadily in overlapping passes. The goal is to evenly abrade a thin layer of clear coat to level it with the bottom of the scratch. After the scratch is gone, repeat the process with the finer polishing compound to restore gloss and remove any hazing left by the more aggressive compound.
| Factor | Light Scrape (Clear Coat Only) | Deep Scratch (Through Paint) |
|---|
| Fingernail Test | Nail glides over smoothly | Nail catches in the groove |
| DIY Fix Potential | High - can be buffed/polished | Low - requires touch-up paint & clear |
| Professional Cost | $150 - $300 for polishing | $400 - $1,000+ for panel repaint |
| Key Tool | Dual-Action Polisher, Compound | Touch-up brush, Sandpaper, Clear coat |
| Time Required (DIY) | 1-2 hours | Several hours over multiple days |
Always work in a shaded, cool area and tape off adjacent trim to avoid damage. This process removes a tiny amount of clear coat, so it's not something you should do repeatedly to the same spot. If you're unsure, practice on an inconspicuous area first or consult a professional detailer.
