What to Do When Car Paint is Scratched Off?
2 Answers
When the car paint is scratched off, you can clean the scratched area, sand it smooth with sandpaper, and then spray paint. When spraying, make sure to spray back and forth, avoiding spraying heavily in one spot, until the color covers the blackened area. After the paint is applied, wait a few minutes for it to dry. Then, prepare blending clear coat, which helps the touched-up paint blend better with the car's original color and also protects the repaired paint. Attach the blending clear coat to a mini spray can and spray it over the touched-up area from a certain distance, avoiding the untouched areas. Wait a moment, and the touch-up is complete. A car's paint surface consists of four layers, from the inside out: the electrocoat layer, the primer layer, the color coat layer, and the clear coat layer.
When I see a scratch on my car, I handle it myself. First, clean the scratched area thoroughly to ensure there’s no dust or grease, as these can prevent the touch-up paint from adhering properly. Use a touch-up pen to apply the paint gently, making sure to choose the correct color—take a photo and check the paint code for your car model before purchasing. Wait half an hour for it to dry, then use fine sandpaper to smooth the edges, being careful not to press too hard to avoid damaging more paint. Small scratches can usually be covered up, and a touch-up pen only costs a few dozen bucks, making it cost-effective. If the scratch is deep enough to expose metal, rust prevention is necessary—apply some rust-proof paint or clear tape as a temporary fix. For major scratches, it’s best to visit a repair shop, as they have professional tools for spray painting to prevent rust from spreading and affecting the car body. When parking, be careful not to get too close to railings to minimize the risk of scratches. Addressing scratches promptly saves money and protects your beloved car.