What to Do If Your Car Gets Scratched During Maintenance at a 4S Shop?
2 Answers
If the car gets scratched during maintenance at a 4S shop, you can request the 4S shop to repair it. Minor scratches on the paint surface are superficial and can be completely repaired by waxing. Use a compound to treat the area, wiping in straight lines, and then apply wax. For slightly larger scratches, a touch-up pen can be used as an emergency solution. These are generally available at automotive supply stores, where you can buy the appropriate one by providing your car model. For more severe scratches where the underlying primer color is visible, note that parts like the bumper and side mirrors are made of engineering plastic and will not rust.
If I find my car was scratched during maintenance at the 4S shop, the first thing I do is request surveillance footage to immediately secure evidence. The surveillance video serves as the most direct proof that the vehicle was intact before handover but damaged during maintenance. Next, I directly approach the after-sales manager—firm yet polite—clearly demanding they repair the scratches and cover all costs, while also requiring a signed repair agreement. Having encountered similar situations before, I additionally inspect the engine bay and tires, as mechanics might handle the car carelessly when moving it. I also request complimentary maintenance from the 4S shop as compensation for the inconvenience. If they try to shift blame, I promptly file a complaint with the manufacturer's customer service and keep all communication records. Always remember to take a full video of the car before maintenance to prevent disputes.
