What to Do When Car Paint is Scratched Off?
3 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.
After the car's paint got scratched off, I believe the biggest risk is rust. Exposed metal is prone to rust, especially in areas with heavy rain or salt. So, I don't attempt DIY fixes but instead go to a professional repair shop as soon as possible. They can thoroughly assess the damage, smooth it out with sandpaper, apply primer to prevent rust, and then repaint to ensure a seamless finish. Small scratches might only need spot repairs, while bigger issues may require replacing entire panels—costlier but safer. Ignoring it could lead to rust spreading into the frame or door seams, making repairs more expensive and potentially affecting components like brake lines. Also, if you notice scratches while washing the car, avoid blasting them with high-pressure water. After cleaning, applying some car wax can temporarily seal out moisture. In short, safety comes first—get it fixed early.
