How to Deal with Paint Scratches on a Car?

[DeJosiah]

If it is general paint (alkyd enamel), it can be wiped off with thinner; if it is baked paint, mechanical methods are usually required for removal, such as using fine sandpaper for sanding first, followed by polishing; if it is water-based paint, simply wash it with car wash liquid. Below is a relevant introduction to automotive paint: 1. Function: Automotive paint is a protective film sprayed on cars, a type of coating that makes the car body less susceptible to corrosion. 2. Precautions: Refer to safety technical data before use; thoroughly stir the paint before use to ensure uniform color; always wear protective gear, including a respirator and work clothes when using it.

[RowanLynn]

Last time my car accidentally got white paint on it in the parking lot, and I panicked. I immediately went online to research how to handle it myself. First, you need to determine whether the paint is water-based or oil-based. Spray-painted marks are usually water-based, so you can try using toothpaste or alcohol: take a small piece of cotton cloth, dip it in toothpaste, and gently rub—don’t press too hard to avoid scratching the original paint. If the paint has dried and is stubborn, you’ll need to use a dedicated car polish or thinner, but test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the paint before treating the larger area. After handling it, remember to rinse with clean water and apply wax to protect the paint and prevent further damage. It’s best to stay away from construction sites when driving or park in a garage to avoid accidents.

[MacReed]

I've seen many car owners come to the repair shop for help with scratched paint, and dealing with this issue requires the right approach. If it's just a slight transfer of other paint, you can gently sand off the surface layer with fine sandpaper (2000 grit or above), then restore the shine with a polishing machine and wax. For oil-based paint, carefully use solvents like acetone or banana oil to dissolve it, but be sure to wear gloves and control the application time to avoid damaging the base coat. Never use steel brushes or strong acidic/alkaline products, as they can easily corrode the original car paint. For large or deep scratches, it's best to go directly to a professional detailing shop for baking paint repair—it saves time and is safer.

[Alexa]

As a rookie who just got my driver's license, my car got sprayed with paint from the neighboring shop for the first time. In a moment of quick thinking, I used alcohol wipes to wipe it off! The process was quite simple: I grabbed some 70% concentration alcohol and a soft cloth, then gently rubbed the affected area for a few minutes. The paint basically dissolved away. If alcohol isn't strong enough, try toothpaste or WD-40—the principle is that chemical ingredients dissolve the dirt. Remember to be gentle during the process; don't scrub too hard and damage the paint. After finishing, rinse with clean water and dry it off. Adding some car wash soap can help prevent residue. It's best to avoid parking near construction areas in daily situations.