How to Deal with Vehicle Scratches?
2 Answers
Toothpaste is the most cost-effective method for repairing car paint scratches, and it also delivers decent results in scratch repair. Nail polish generally offers mediocre repair effects, merely adding a transparent coating over the scratch, which can visually reduce its appearance. For slightly larger scratches, a touch-up pen can serve as an emergency solution. Touch-up pens are commonly available at general automotive accessory stores. Shake the paint inside the touch-up pen well, and you can add a certain amount of thinner to the pen. After the touched-up area dries, apply fine wax to finish. This is a paste-like repair agent similar to toothpaste, functioning much like toothpaste but only capable of repairing minor scratches.
I've got plenty of experience with car paint scratches. Last week I noticed a 10cm-long scratch on my door. First I checked the depth by running my finger over it - when I confirmed it hadn't reached the primer, I decided to fix it myself. I found a shady spot and used fine polishing wax with a soft cloth, working in circular motions. The results were surprisingly good. For deeper scratches that reveal the white primer, you'll need touch-up paint - you can find matching color codes online for just 30-50 yuan. Never use toothpaste as it can actually haze the clear coat. For large scratches, professional shops are more reliable. Their spray booths produce results completely different from DIY attempts - though it costs a few hundred yuan, the color lasts at least two years without fading.
