How to Repair Scratches on the Rearview Mirror Plastic Shell?

[VonIvan]

Use a compound to treat the scratches by wiping in straight lines, then apply wax. Start with coarse wax followed by fine wax, moving in the same direction from the inside out to remove minor scratches. Before using a touch-up pen, shake the paint inside thoroughly. Apply the base coat like nail polish, and you can add a certain amount of thinner to the touch-up pen to ensure smooth spraying. First, wash and dry the car. Apply rust remover to the scratched area, wait for 10-15 minutes, then wipe off the rust remover with a tissue to prevent further rusting in the scratched area.

[ONora]

Scratches on the plastic shell of the rearview mirror are really annoying. I’ve driven several cars myself and often encountered this issue. The most reliable method is to first clean the scratched area, using a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust, ensuring the surface is clean and dry. For minor scratches, you can try using toothpaste—apply a small amount to a soft cloth and rub it repeatedly along the direction of the scratch for a few minutes, then wipe it off with a damp cloth. This often works well, is cost-effective and convenient, and also helps prevent corrosion. For moderate scratches, you might need wet sanding with 1500-grit sandpaper to gently smooth the surface, followed by applying plastic polishing compound and buffing it in circular motions. For severe scratches, it’s best not to bother—opt for professional repair or buy a new shell replacement to avoid compromising the plastic’s strength and appearance. When parking, be mindful of obstacles and regularly apply automotive plastic conditioner to significantly reduce new scratches. The entire process requires patience—take it step by step without rushing to ensure the rearview mirror remains safe and reliable, avoiding any hazards while driving.

[Joseph]

It's common to encounter scratches on the rearview mirror plastic shell during car repairs. My experience shows that a step-by-step approach is safe and effective. Start by cleaning the surface, using alcohol to remove grease, and wear gloves to prevent sweat stains. Then assess the scratch depth: for shallow scratches, simply apply plastic polishing compound or car polishing wax on a cloth and gently rub to restore; for deeper scratches, first use 1000-grit sandpaper with water to smooth the surface, then apply polishing compound to restore shine. Avoid excessive force during the process to prevent damage to the mirror itself. After completion, apply a layer of UV protectant to prevent oxidation. For DIY at home, choosing a professional tool kit is more convenient, costing just 20-30 yuan to get the job done. For prevention, try parking closer to the outside to reduce the risk of scratches. Repairing the mirror shell can extend its lifespan, enhance the overall appearance of the car, and boost driving confidence, making it worth the small effort.

[DelBrielle]

Small scratches can be easily repaired. After cleaning, apply toothpaste to the scratched area and rub it repeatedly with an old cloth for dozens of times. Wipe it off after a while to see the effect. This is a low-budget method I learned online, which works for minor scratches and can be used for emergency treatment without spending money. For deeper scratches, you need to polish them and then apply plastic restorer to restore the shine. For regular maintenance of the mirror shell, just spray it with a car-specific cleaner and avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight to prevent plastic aging.

[MelanieRose]

Minor scratches are easy to fix. Just clean the area, apply some plastic maintenance oil or polishing wax, and rub for a few minutes. I learned this trick from a friend at an auto repair shop. Prevention is key—park away from tree branches and corners to reduce the chance of scratches. Plastic shells are prone to marks, so regular maintenance with alcohol or automotive-specific cleaners can help maintain a scratch-resistant surface. After treatment, the mirror housing becomes durable and functional, ensuring driving visibility remains unaffected.