How to repair a deep scratch on the car?
3 Answers
For hairline scratches, they can usually be removed by polishing or applying a rubbing compound. Generally, a gentle wipe is enough to make the hairline scratches disappear. For light scratches, just prepare a tube of toothpaste. Toothpaste is very effective for shallow scratches that haven't damaged the car's primer. Medium to deep scratches cannot be repaired by polishing. If the dent area is small and the depth does not exceed 5mm, it can be filled with putty to level the surface, followed by touch-up painting. For more severe deformations, bodywork (panel beating) is required. Scratch repair demands relatively high technical skills from the technician.
I've dealt with deep scratches on cars many times myself. The first thing is to check the scratch depth. If it reaches the primer and exposes the metal, you need to act quickly to prevent rust. You can try a simple method: thoroughly clean the scratched area, gently smooth the edges with fine sandpaper, then apply scratch repair paste or use a touch-up pen matching your car's paint. Apply thin layers and let them dry, repeating several times can cover it up quite well. But honestly, it's hard to perfectly fix deep scratches yourself, especially with modern car paints that have a clear coat - improper handling may leave marks. My suggestion is that for deep scratches, it's best to take it to a professional auto body shop. They'll use machines to level it, apply filler, and spray paint to factory standards. Prices vary by car model, but small cars can be fixed for around 200-300 RMB, saving you hassle. Always park carefully away from blind spots to avoid scratches.
I really enjoy DIY car scratch repairs, and deep scratches aren't as difficult as you might think. Just prepare some simple tools: car wash soap, fine-grit sandpaper, scratch remover, or touch-up paint. First, clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dust. Second, carefully sand down the uneven areas with the sandpaper, being careful not to apply too much pressure and damage the good paint. Third, apply the touch-up product and wait for it to dry before applying a second coat. Finally, polish with wax to blend everything together—job done! This method takes some time but is low-cost, costing around 50 yuan, and you'll pick up some handy skills along the way. Just remember, the touch-up color might slightly differ, especially under sunlight, but it works great for ordinary scratches. I often use this method for minor scrapes—it protects the car body, boosts my confidence while driving, and helps prevent corrosion to extend the car's lifespan.
