What are the methods for treating deep scratches on a car?
3 Answers
Methods for treating deep scratches on a car are: 1. Clean the damaged area and carefully fill it with touch-up paint; 2. Lightly sand the damaged area with very fine sandpaper, and use spray paint for larger damaged areas; 3. To avoid spraying paint on other parts of the car body, use cardboard to cover the surrounding areas; 4. After completing the touch-up, rinse the treated area with water, sand it with very fine sandpaper to smooth it out, rinse again, and then apply car wax. Methods for maintaining the car's surface include: 1. Waxing; 2. Using a specialized machine to press vehicle protectant into the paint to form a protective layer; 3. Using a coating machine to evenly spray liquid wax onto the car's surface for coating; 4. Performing surface grinding and polishing to treat the paint finish.
I enjoy DIY car repairs in my spare time. When dealing with deep scratches, I first thoroughly clean the affected area with soapy water to remove dirt and grease. Then, I carefully fill the dented area with scratch repair compound or touch-up paint, waiting several hours for it to dry completely before gently sanding it smooth using progressively finer grit sandpaper. Next, I apply matching automotive spray paint and clear coat in thin, even layers to avoid bubbles. After full drying, I polish the area to restore gloss. If the scratch reaches bare metal, I temporarily apply rust preventative oil, but ultimately recommend visiting a professional body shop as they have specialized spray equipment for optimal results. DIY saves money but takes time – with practice, I've gotten more skilled. Prevention is key though; regular waxing protects the paint and minimizes issues.
The key to handling deep scratches lies in the meticulous steps. First, assess the scratch depth—if it reaches the primer or metal, promptly remove rust to prevent corrosion. Use an angle grinder or sandpaper to eliminate oxidation and rough edges, then fill with putty or filler to level the surface. After drying, sand it smooth, apply primer to solidify the base layer, and spray the topcoat. Maintain a clean, dust-free workspace throughout to avoid paint bubbling. I emphasize color matching and uniformity, as DIY efforts often lead to errors, especially in complex areas like door handles. Professional shops, though costly, offer reliability—their paint booths ensure durable finishes. Regular car washes and inspections help avoid gravel scratches, and early treatment saves hassle and money.
