What to Do When the Car Paint Gets Scratched?

[DiTalia]

If the car paint gets scratched, you can handle it based on the severity of the scratch: 1. For light scratches, polishing can be applied: Polishing is only suitable for minor scratches. However, moderate friction helps eliminate fine scratches. If done too frequently, it can thin the paint layer and eventually wear through it, which is counterproductive. Therefore, moderate polishing can protect the paint, but it should not be overdone. 2. For deeper scratches, touch-up paint is needed: This is for more severe scratches. If the scratched area is small and you are handy, you can purchase a touch-up pen and do it yourself. 3. For larger scratched areas: You will need to go to a repair shop. Depending on the situation, you can choose to repair it through insurance or pay out of pocket.

[OHayden]

I just scratched some paint when I started driving, and experience tells me to handle it quickly with DIY. First, clean the damaged area thoroughly to remove dust and stains, then gently apply a matching touch-up pen and wait for it to dry—this prevents rust from spreading. Small scratches can be fixed yourself, saving money and time; a pen costs just tens of yuan, and for older cars, there’s no need for major repairs. Usually, reversing slowly, checking mirrors more, or installing a rearview camera can prevent such issues. Keeping the paint well-maintained boosts resale value, so it’s advisable to inspect the body for scratches regularly. If left untreated, rainwater can seep in and corrode the metal, making repairs harder later. In short, handle minor issues yourself, but leave major ones to the experts.

[DeCora]

Last time I parked, I slightly scratched the door edge. I immediately drove to a professional auto repair shop. The technician inspected it and recommended a partial touch-up with original factory color matching to ensure aesthetics and durability. Leaving minor damages to the experts saves worry—though more expensive than DIY, it prevents future issues like rust or paint peeling. I also checked my insurance policy; some cover minor repairs. New cars especially need prompt treatment to maintain value. Always stay focused while driving and choose safe parking spots to prevent accidents. Untreated paint damage can weaken the car's structure and affect safe driving. Develop a habit of regular car washing to minimize external damage.

[Nguyen]

As a young driver, I was a bit nervous about my first car scrape, but the issue was minor. I looked up some DIY guides online, bought a touch-up paint kit, and applied it myself. The color difference is a bit noticeable, but it temporarily prevents rust. The total cost was only 50 yuan, which is quite budget-friendly for a novice like me. I recommend practicing reversing skills and being extra cautious around corners and walls to prevent such incidents. If minor damages are not addressed promptly, exposed metal can rust and worsen, leading to higher repair costs. It's wise to regularly check your car's condition and keep basic tools in the vehicle. This experience has made me a more cautious driver.