How to Repair Car Scratches?
3 Answers
Methods to repair car scratches: 1. Toothpaste repair: Toothpaste can only reduce the appearance of scratches; the actual scratch will still be there and won't be filled in. 2. Touch-up paint pen: This also provides a simple filling effect for scratches, but it may wear off over time. 3. Car scratch repair compound: This is a paste-like repair agent similar to toothpaste, with effects comparable to toothpaste, but it can only repair minor scratches. Please note that minor repairs can often be done by yourself, as most damage is to the car's clear coat or color coat. However, if the primer is exposed or the metal body is damaged, it is recommended to visit a professional auto body shop for repair.
When my car has scratches, I first clean the surface with water and a soft cloth to ensure there is no dust or debris. For minor scratches, I often use polish to gently rub them; toothpaste can also work as it fills in shallow marks, but don’t press too hard to avoid damaging the paint. Deeper scratches may require sanding and touch-up paint. I’ve tried using a touch-up pen myself, but it’s important to choose the right color—otherwise, it may look uneven or mismatched. You can refer to the car’s color code manual for matching. If the scratch exposes the primer or metal, it’s best to take it to a professional auto body shop for repainting—they have the equipment to restore the finish. I also regularly apply wax as a preventive measure, especially after washing the car, to protect against bird droppings and corrosion. In short, don’t rush—assess the depth of the scratch before taking action to avoid making things worse.
As a DIY enthusiast, I treat scratch repairs as little projects to enjoy. For simple scratches, toothpaste or polishing wax works just fine. It's fun to spend a few bucks buying these, apply them, and then buff them to a shine after they dry. For medium-depth scratches, I opt for touch-up paint pens. Before applying, I make sure the surface is dry and clean, applying thin layers multiple times to prevent bubbling, and the results are pretty good—just remember to let it dry for a day. For deep scratches, I try small spray paint kits, first testing the color match in an inconspicuous area, then taping off the edges to prevent overspray. The whole process saves money and teaches some skills, and the tools are all available at supermarkets. But if it involves large areas or dented panels, it's safer to let a professional inspect it. After finishing each repair, I love checking other areas and tidying up the interior to keep it looking good—haha.
