What to Do When Your Car's Paint Gets Scratched?
2 Answers
Here are the methods to deal with scratched car paint: 1. Hairline Scratches: For hairline scratches, polishing or applying a rubbing compound is usually sufficient to remove them. Simply gently rub, and the hairline scratches will disappear. 2. Light Scratches: For light scratches, all you need is a tube of toothpaste. Toothpaste is highly effective for shallow scratches that haven't damaged the car's primer, especially for removing traces left by other vehicles' paint during minor collisions or adhesive residues from stickers. Most of these marks can be completely wiped away. 3. Moderate to Deep Scratches: Moderate and deep scratches cannot be repaired by polishing. If the dent is small and does not exceed 5mm, it can be leveled by filling with putty before repainting.
A few days ago, my car was scratched while parked on the roadside. After noticing it, I first checked the location and depth of the scratch. If it was just a surface scratch that didn't reach the primer, I could handle it at home with a DIY solution. Applying toothpaste or a professional car scratch repair compound, then gently rubbing it with a soft cloth can yield decent results, saving the cost of a repair shop visit. However, if the scratch is deep enough to expose the metal or plastic base material, it's essential to promptly visit a professional repair shop or even a dealership to prevent rust or corrosion, as delays can exacerbate the issue. Additionally, prevention is crucial. I make it a habit to park in open spaces, avoiding proximity to other vehicles, especially in narrow lanes or parking lots. New drivers might be more prone to bumps and scratches, so I recommend regular car washes and applying a layer of wax to protect the paint. It's an affordable way to extend the lifespan of your car's paint.
