The fastest way to fix a scraped car depends entirely on the depth of the scratch. For light clear coat scratches that don't catch your fingernail, you can often fix it yourself with a scratch removal compound and polish. If the scratch has penetrated the color coat down to the primer (a different colored layer, often gray or black) or bare metal, professional repainting is usually required for a seamless, long-lasting repair.
First, wash and dry the area thoroughly. Assess the scratch depth by running a fingernail across it. If your nail doesn't catch, the scratch is likely superficial.
For a shallow clear coat scratch, apply a rubbing compound to a microfiber cloth and work it in with small, circular motions. This process, known as paint correction, levels the clear coat by removing a tiny amount of surrounding material to match the scratch's depth. Wipe away the residue and apply a polish to restore shine, followed by wax for protection.
If you see a different color underneath the paint, the scratch is deeper. A touch-up paint pen, matched to your car's exact color code (found on the driver's side door jamb or in the glove compartment), can mask the damage. Clean the scratch with isopropyl alcohol, apply the paint in thin layers, allowing each to dry, and finish with a clear coat from the pen. The result won't be perfect but will protect from rust and look much better from a few feet away.
Deep scratches down to metal demand professional attention to prevent rust. The table below outlines the repair methods based on scratch depth.
| Scratch Depth Level | Visible Damage | Recommended Repair Method | Approximate DIY Cost | Professional Repair Cost | Key Consideration |
|---|
| Light (Clear Coat Only) | Shiny, surface haze | Scratch Remover Compound & Polish | $20 - $40 | $100 - $300 | Prevents UV damage and oxidation. |
| Moderate (Through Color Paint) | Primer is visible | Touch-Up Paint Pen | $30 - $60 | $400 - $800 | Color matching is critical for good results. |
| Severe (Through Primer) | Bare metal is exposed | Professional Sanding, Filling, Repainting | Not Advisable | $800 - $1,500+ | Essential to prevent structural rust. |
