What to Do When a Small Area of Car Paint is Scratched Off?
3 Answers
The solution for a small area of car paint being scratched off is: 1. Clean the scratched area with clean water; 2. Use sandpaper to smooth the scratched area and check by hand if it is even; 3. Cover areas that do not need repainting with tape; 4. Choose a spray paint can that matches the car's color and spray the scratched area. Methods to prevent car paint from peeling include: 1. Avoid using hard objects or dry cloths to wipe the paint directly—rinse off dust and dirt with water first, then use a clean, absorbent cloth to wipe; 2. Avoid parking in direct sunlight for extended periods; 3. Reduce the frequency of car washes and avoid waxing or polishing; 4. Be prompt in removing corrosive substances to minimize paint corrosion.
I've encountered scratches on my car several times, and DIY repair is quite cost-effective. If only the clear coat is slightly damaged, first buy a touch-up pen of the same color code from an auto repair shop, clean the scratched area and apply gently. After drying, apply some coarse wax for polishing. If the primer is exposed, apply an anti-rust primer before color touch-up. Although the result isn't as good as professional spray painting, it's sufficient for emergencies. Avoid operating in humid weather to prevent bubbling. If the scratch is on plastic parts, there's no need to worry about rust. Keeping a touch-up pen in the car is really practical—it saves money and hassle when needed.
I'm the type who hates hassle, so I usually leave minor paint scratches to the pros. For your case, first snap a photo and show it to a nearby auto body shop. If the primer isn't damaged, they can probably buff it out for around a hundred bucks. If the primer is compromised, opt for spot repainting—don't cheap out with touch-up pens as they often peel later. Treat metal areas promptly to prevent rust. Schedule paint repairs for shady hours, and avoid direct sun or car washes right after. Don't stress about color mismatch—let the technician adjust the mix a few times. Avoid pressure washing for three days post-repair, and after three months, a polish should make the fix nearly invisible.
