How to Repair Scratches on Carbon Fiber Surface?

[AdelineLee]

Sand the damaged area outward from both sides using sandpaper, ensuring the sanded area is slightly longer than the damaged section, and appropriately thin the damaged area. Cut the carbon fiber cloth to size and fully saturate it with epoxy resin. Then, evenly apply a layer of resin to the damaged surface and wrap the carbon fiber cloth around the affected area. Wrap with electrical tape and apply pressure to squeeze out excess resin. After the resin has cured, remove the electrical tape and sand the surface smooth. Finally, proceed with painting: first apply the base coat, then restore the lettering or patterns, followed by clear coat application, sanding, and polishing.

[LeGraham]

I installed carbon fiber kits in my car and got them scratched several times, but I’ve figured out some tricks. For minor scratches: first, clean the surface dust with a clean microfiber cloth, ensuring no debris is left; then apply some automotive polish—brands like Meguiar’s, which specialize in carbon fiber repair, work well—and gently buff the scratched area in small circular motions. Avoid using too much force, as carbon fiber is brittle and prone to cracking. Stop once it feels smooth, rinse off any residue, and apply a layer of UV-protective wax to prevent oxidation. If the scratch is deep and exposes the white layer, it’s hard to fix yourself—you’ll need to visit a professional shop or consider covering it with a wrap. When parking, avoid walls or gravel piles, and use soft water when washing the car. I learned these tips from DIY forums, saving thousands in repair costs. The key tools are cheap, just spend around 100 yuan to try at home, but patience is crucial—don’t tackle too much at once to ensure even results. With long-term care like this, minor scratches won’t affect the overall aesthetics.

[ElainaAnn]

Back when I worked at the auto repair shop, I dealt with many carbon fiber issues, and customer complaints about scratches were quite common. My advice: First, determine the depth of the scratch. For shallow scratches, gently sand with fine-grit sandpaper—no coarser than 2000 grit—to avoid worsening the damage. Then, use professional polishing compound with a low-speed polishing pad to restore the shine, followed by applying a protective layer like ceramic coating for added durability. For deep scratches involving material damage, I recommend visiting a professional shop for resin repair or partial replacement. Key maintenance tips: Clean regularly to prevent acid rain corrosion, avoid using rough cloths, and consider applying a paint protection film for added defense. The tools aren’t expensive—just a few dozen yuan—but beginners might accidentally damage the surface. Practice a few times, and you’ll get the hang of it. Remember, carbon fiber is lightweight but delicate; address issues promptly to prevent oxidation.

[StSteven]

When I first bought my car, I didn't know much and was really upset when the carbon fiber got scratched by tree branches. I tried cleaning it with soapy water, but that only made it worse. Later, I looked up tutorials: for minor scratches, toothpaste can be used as a cheap alternative—apply it and gently rub in small circles with a soft cloth; after cleaning, spray on a hydrophobic spray for protection. If that doesn't work, switch to a specialized repair paste, which is simple to use at home. Cost-wise: DIY costs just a few dozen yuan, while professional repairs can run into hundreds. I recommend beginners test on a small area first to avoid damaging larger parts. Always be mindful of parking away from obstacles.