How to Repair Plastic Scratches on Car Bumper?

[ColtonRose]

For minor scratches, prevention is key. It's advisable to protect the paint when it's still new, such as by applying a layer of mirror glaze on the car body surface. Use a polishing wheel with a polishing enhancer to remove the oxidation layer attached to the car's surface and smooth out fine scratches. This process only takes about 30 to 40 minutes. If the scratches on the car body have exposed the primer, a local touch-up paint treatment is necessary.

[Ricky]

As an enthusiast who frequently tinkers with cars, I find repairing scratches on plastic bumpers quite interesting. The first step is to thoroughly clean the scratched area using car cleaner or soapy water to ensure no dust or grease residue remains. Then, gently sand the area with 1500-grit fine sandpaper, being careful not to apply too much pressure to avoid damaging the surrounding plastic surface. Once smoothed, apply a specialized scratch repair paste or use a spray paint can, selecting a color that matches the car paint—ideally by referencing the original factory color code from a shop. Apply the paint in two thin coats, allowing 10 minutes of drying time between applications, and finish with a layer of clear protective paint to enhance the gloss. The entire process takes about half an hour. Afterwards, applying wax helps maintain the results and prevents future rainwater corrosion on the plastic. When parking, try to stay away from trees or curbs to minimize the chance of minor scrapes. In short, DIY repairs can save hundreds in repair costs and provide a great sense of accomplishment.

[Truman]

For ordinary car owners dealing with plastic bumper scratches, the main considerations are the actual situation and cost. If it's just a shallow mark, using a repair pen bought online for around 20 yuan will do the trick—it takes only a few minutes. Deeper scratches might require a trip to the repair shop for repainting, costing between 200 to 500 yuan. I would assess: if the scratch is in a less noticeable area like the lower part of the rear bumper, leaving it as is won't be a problem; if the base material is exposed, it's best to address it promptly to prevent dirt buildup, which could lead to plastic deformation or cracking. When doing DIY repairs, remember to clean the area thoroughly first, apply the touch-up product evenly, and let it dry properly—don't rush to wash the car afterward. For prevention, choose safe parking spots to minimize collision risks. After a simple repair, maintain a weekly car wash routine to keep the bumper more durable.

[Travis]

My driving style is straightforward and aggressive, so I prefer quick fixes for bumper scratches. First, clean the scratched area with a damp cloth, then apply some toothpaste or specialized scratch wax and rub it in for a few minutes to cover light marks. If the result isn't satisfactory, order a quick repair spray online, choose a color close to the original paint, and spray a thin layer. Keep your hand steady to avoid messy application, and check the result after it dries. The whole process takes about ten minutes and costs just a few dozen yuan, making it very convenient. Addressing minor issues promptly prevents them from becoming bigger problems. For daily maintenance, wash the car frequently and use a soft brush to prevent new scratches.