A DIY Guide To Fix Deep Scratches on Cars
The deep scratches in the paint of a car may be repaired by an experienced person provided some time and suitable technique are required. Smaller surface scratches can usually be buffed away, but deeper cuts that reach the clear coat or paint beneath will need a different approach.
Assessing the Scratch Depth
Check depth on scratch before jumping into repairs: • Fingernail test – if your nail catches the scratches, it’s likely too deep for just a polish. • Wet surface – If you can see them when wet then they’ve passed through the clear coat (which is very thin) • Any metal exposed?
DIY Repair Methods
Moderately Deep Scratches:
They try to sand them off.
Fill in the scratch using a touch-up paint.
Allow to cure, then wet sand into the finish
Protect the repair with a clear coat
Restore Shine to the Whole Panel
Deep Scratches Exposing Metal:
In this case, use the sandpaper to cut down bare metal around the scratch.
Primer then color-matching paint in light coats
Clear coat the repaired area
Wet sand and polish to blend
With a scratch repair kit that contains fillers and touch-up paint such as this (ad)(ad), it can be much easier to handle DIY repairs.
DIY methods can better the look of deep cuts, but a professional repair will yield far superior results on serious damage. ALWAYS test products in an out of the way area first.
