Is Toothpaste Harmful to Car Paint?
2 Answers
Because toothpaste itself is acidic or alkaline, it can cause some damage to car paint, but the damage is not significant, and this method can still be used to repair car paint. Here are some related details: 1. The Effect of Toothpaste: Toothpaste does have the effect of removing minor scratches from car paint, but don't expect toothpaste to completely eliminate scratches, given its low cost. 2. The Side Effects of Toothpaste: It can be said that the cost of using toothpaste to remove scratches is almost zero. However, there are certain side effects when using toothpaste to remove car scratches. It may not be suitable for dark-colored car paint, as it could cause the treated area to appear whitish, achieving the opposite effect. Therefore, dark-colored car paint should be used with caution. 3. Why Toothpaste Works: Toothpaste contains abrasives in its ingredients, which give it a function similar to car wax, helping to reduce the appearance of scratches. Additionally, toothpaste can also act as a simple barrier, preventing rust in the short term, especially for white car paint, where the effect is most noticeable.
Some people ask me about the issues of using toothpaste on car paint. Having worked in a repair shop for years, I've seen many similar cases. Toothpaste contains abrasive particles, like tiny sand grains, which can smooth out minor scratches. However, car paint has a protective clear coat, and rubbing too hard can scratch the surface with these particles, making the paint look dull and accelerating aging. I've tried it myself—it's okay for small stains in the short term, but repeated use can cause deeper damage, eventually requiring expensive professional polishing at a detailing shop. Actually, maintaining car paint is simple: use dedicated car wash soap regularly and apply wax every quarter to prevent scratches. Don't skimp on small costs—professional tools are the way to go.
