What are the methods for treating scratches on white cars?
3 Answers
White car scratch treatment methods vary depending on the situation: 1. For hairline scratches, use polishing or apply abrasive compounds to remove them; 2. For light scratches, prepare a tube of toothpaste, apply it to the scratch, and wipe it off; 3. For moderate to deep scratches, fill with putty to level the surface and then perform touch-up painting; 4. For deep scratches, metalworking treatment is required. Car maintenance methods include: 1. Regularly check the car's crevices prone to water ingress to prevent mud and dirty water from entering and damaging the car's paint; 2. Be cautious to avoid driving in highly corrosive areas, which can cause the paint to corrode and peel; 3. Wash the car promptly after highway driving to prevent corrosion from insects hitting the car's paint at high speeds.
As someone who maintains a white car long-term, when dealing with scratches, I first clean the damaged area, avoiding rough cloths to prevent further abrasions. Then, I assess the scratch depth: lightly run a finger over it—if the surface feels smooth, a scratch wax can repair it; if it feels indented and may have reached the primer, professional repainting is needed. White paint tends to show dirt and color discrepancies easily, so I recommend purchasing a car-specific scratch repair paste. Apply it and polish with a soft cloth in small circular motions, using even pressure without pressing too hard. Afterward, park in the shade to inspect the results, as it’s easier to observe than under direct sunlight. For prevention, I wax the car once a month to protect the paint. Daily car washes with a high-pressure water spray also reduce friction-induced scratches. The entire process requires patience, and if DIY efforts fail, promptly visit a 4S shop to prevent worsening.
I drive a white car and prefer DIY methods like using toothpaste or touch-up pens bought online for minor scratches. First, clean the affected area, apply a bit of regular toothpaste to a cloth, gently rub the scratch for a few minutes, then rinse it off. If it works, continue; otherwise, switch to the touch-up pen—shake it well, apply in layers, and let it dry. Matching the color is especially important for white cars, as different models have different white codes, and using the wrong product can make it look worse. This is a low-cost solution but only suitable for minor scratches. For moderate or worse damage, it’s better to consult a professional to avoid repeated treatments and higher costs. I’ve also found that regular car washes to prevent dirt buildup can help avoid scratches. In short, checking video tutorials before starting is a reliable approach.
