What to Do When a Car Gets a Little Paint Scratched?
2 Answers
The solutions for minor paint scratches on a car are: 1. Apply toothpaste: Apply toothpaste to the scratch and rub it back and forth, which can effectively remove the scratch and prevent rust; 2. Waxing: Minor scratches can be removed with regular maintenance wax, while deeper scratches require rubbing compound; 3. Touch-up paint pen: Use a touch-up paint pen to color the scratch. For deeper scratches, apply body filler first before touching up the paint. The steps are waxing, sanding, cleaning, and waxing again. Do not apply too much wax, just enough to cover the damaged area; 4. Use an eraser: Some very light marks can be removed by rubbing with an eraser.
I recently encountered this situation where my car got a small scratch on the paint while parked on the roadside. First, I used a damp cloth to clean the scratched area to avoid sand particles worsening the damage. If the scratch isn't too deep, I'd use a dedicated touch-up paint pen, which can be purchased online or at auto shops—just apply a layer of matching color, and it's done in minutes. After application, I'd wax the area to protect the paint and prevent rust. If the scratch is severe and exposes the metal beneath, it's beyond DIY repair, and the car should be taken to a repair shop where professionals can use spray paint for better results. Otherwise, prolonged exposure to rain could cause rust. I usually maintain a safe distance from obstacles while driving and apply wax monthly after car washes, which significantly reduces the hassle of minor scratches.
