How to Repair Scratches on Plastic Shells?
4 Answers
You can either repair it yourself or go to an auto repair center for the repair. Here are the relevant introductions about specific methods: 1. Paint Pen Repair Method: Use a paint pen with a similar color to apply on the scratched area. This is the paint pen repair method. This method is relatively simple, but the adhesion of the repaired paint is insufficient, easily peeling off and not long-lasting. 2. Spray Painting Method: This is the traditional method of repainting to repair scratches. Its main disadvantages are that the damage area to the original paint is relatively large, the repair time is relatively long, and the effect is often unsatisfactory.
As someone who frequently deals with automotive plastic parts, I first clean the scratched area, using a soft cloth and alcohol to remove dirt. Then, I assess the depth of the scratch—shallow ones can be directly treated with plastic restorer or softened and restored using a heat gun, while deeper ones require sanding from coarse to fine grit (e.g., from 400 to 2000 grit) to level the surface, followed by polishing with polishing compound. Next, apply protective wax to prevent oxidation. It’s recommended to purchase a professional repair kit, which costs just a few dozen yuan, but remember to wear gloves to avoid chemical burns. Different materials like ABS and PP in automotive interior plastics require different approaches, and deep scratches may even need touch-up paint. Beginners are advised to start with a small test area. Patience is key throughout the process—don’t rush, or you risk grinding through the plastic. Developing a habit of regular maintenance can prevent new scratches, and using a soft-bristle brush for cleaning is safer.
I've been DIY car repairs for over a decade. For plastic scratches, I use simple household methods: After cleaning the surface, I rub it back and forth with a soft cloth dipped in toothpaste or alcohol to fill in fine lines. For deeper scratches, I use a hair dryer to heat the plastic for a minute or two to make it expand and restore its shape, then polish it after cooling. Alternatively, I buy a bottle of automotive plastic repair paste, apply it, wait for it to dry, and then sand it—it works well and is cost-effective. Remember not to scrape with hard objects to avoid worsening the damage. This is common on headlight covers or bumpers. After repair, apply a layer of UV-resistant wax to extend their lifespan. When parking daily, avoid letting debris scratch them. These small tricks save money and hassle.
Hi, I'm an average car owner, and I usually handle plastic scratches myself: Clean the scratched area with a damp cloth, use conditioner to rub lightly scratched areas a few times to fade them; for moderate scratches, apply plastic repair paste, wait for it to cure, and then sand it smooth; deep scratches are best left to professionals. Don't forget tools like sandpaper and a mask—safety first. Preventing scratches is crucial, so avoid contact between hard objects and the car's interior.
