What to Do If a New Car's Paint Gets Scratched?
3 Answers
Generally, the front bumper and fuel tank cover of a car are made of plastic with relatively thin paint. If scratches occur in these areas, you can use a touch-up pen to handle it yourself. If you opt for spray painting, it requires multiple passes. For metallic or pearl paint, the touch-up might look quite noticeable, and it's advisable to visit a 4S shop for professional spray painting. If the car's paint is red or yellow, the touch-up might be slightly more noticeable, whereas with white paint, it's usually hard to spot. If a new car gets scratched, it typically has comprehensive insurance coverage, so you can file a claim for repairs, although the process might be somewhat cumbersome.
I just got my new car last year and accidentally scraped it against a pillar while reversing, causing a small chip in the paint. It broke my heart. I immediately washed the car and wiped it clean with a damp cloth to check the depth of the scratch. Fortunately, it was just the surface paint, and the metal wasn’t damaged. I bought an OEM touch-up pen, matched the color, and gently dabbed it on. After letting it dry for a few days, I lightly sanded it smooth with sandpaper and applied wax for protection. Spending a little money can fix it and prevent rust or further damage. The key is to act quickly—dust and dirt can make repairs harder. Also, if the primer is exposed or the damage is severe, it’s best to take it to a professional shop for repainting. Insurance might cover some of the cost—don’t skimp and risk making the problem worse. New drivers often make this mistake, so leaving extra space when parking can help avoid it.
I'm a frugal person and never rush to the dealership for minor scratches on my new car. After that paint scrape, I first washed off the dirt with soapy water, let it dry, then bought a touch-up paint kit from a small shop. Following video tutorials, I applied the paint and sanded it smooth—simple and hassle-free. If you don't have the tools, toothpaste or nail polish can temporarily cover it in a pinch. Remember not to scrape or rub hard to avoid worsening the damage; regular cleaning and waxing can slow down aging. DIY fixes cost just a few bucks, way better than spending hundreds or thousands on repairs. But if it's serious enough to expose bare metal, I’d honestly take it to a shop—better safe than sorry.
