No driver likes to see scratches or streaks, no matter how small, on the body of their car. However, sometimes it is impossible to avoid rocks, stone marks, or even acts of vandalism that end up tarnishing the vehicle’s image. And the fact is, car sheet metal is more delicate than it seems and easily damaged. Therefore, below, we will tell you about a series of easy tricks to apply at home that will allow you to hide or remove scratches from the car quickly.
Of course, keep in mind that to know if you can repair a scratch at home and for the result to be effective, the first thing you should do is measure its depth, length, and calculate the time that has passed since it occurred.
- Depth: Car paint typically comprises several successive layers, so assessing the depth of the scratch on your vehicle is crucial. The outermost layer is clear and primarily adds shine, followed by the color layer, then the primer, and finally the metal or steel panel. Identifying which layer the scratch has damaged is essential to determine the type of repair needed.
- Extension: A small scratch spanning a few centimeters is not the same as one covering the entire side of a door. Naturally, a minor scratch is much easier and more practical to repair on your own, without the need for a specialized workshop. However, large-area scratches are difficult to remedy in a way that achieves a satisfactory result in terms of color and gloss. In such cases, consulting a professional is advisable.
- Time: Time is a critical factor in scratch removal from a car, as acting swiftly yields the best results. A recent scratch is significantly easier to clean, assess, and fix. Conversely, delaying repair allows the scratch to rust and accumulate dirt, complicating the repair process.
If, after evaluating these three aspects, you conclude that the scratch is superficial, you can effortlessly eliminate it by employing one of these home remedies:
White Cleaning Stone :
You’ve likely heard of the white stone, a widely used and renowned cleaning agent. This eco-friendly and biodegradable cleaner consists of soap, water, white clay, sodium carbonate, and vegetable glycerin. Notably, it lacks harsh chemicals, allowing its safe application on your car’s bodywork.
To address a superficial scratch using the white stone, begin by moistening the included sponge with a bit of water. Lightly press the sponge onto the product until foam appears. Then, gently scrub the affected area until it is thoroughly clean. Rinse with water and dry the area with a cloth to eliminate any residual matter.
Hairspray A staple item like spray hairspray can effectively remove very superficial scratches or minor marks on the paint. However, it’s wise to first test the spray on a less visible section of the car’s exterior to ensure the paint remains unaffected. After confirming its safety, lightly apply the hairspray to the scratch and clean the area with a cloth dampened with water. This straightforward method can make the scratch vanish in mere seconds.
Oven Cleaning Foam For scratches on car rims, oven cleaning foam offers a practical solution. This method is particularly popular among drivers who have grazed a curb. Apply the oven cleaner to the rim’s scratched area and allow it to work for a few minutes. Afterwards, wipe off the foam residue with a cloth. This technique not only removes the scratch but also restores the shine and cleanliness of your car’s wheels.
Hairspray :
A basic product like spray hairspray can remove very superficial car scratches or minor streaks that have damaged the paint. Before applying this method, we recommend conducting a small test on an inconspicuous area of the bodywork to ensure that your car’s paint will not be affected. Once confirmed, apply a bit of hairspray to the damaged area and wipe it off with a cloth moistened with water to remove any residue. This simple technique will make the scratch disappear in just a few seconds.
Oven Cleaning Foam :
For scratches on car rims, oven cleaning foam is a widely used remedy, especially by drivers who have scraped against a curb. Apply the oven cleaning product to the scratched area of the rim and allow it to work for a few minutes. Then, use a cloth to wipe away any foam residue. The benefit of this method is that it not only removes the scratch but also leaves your car’s wheels looking shiny and clean.
Polishing Paste or Polish :
Is highly recommended for removing car scratches. This blend of natural and synthetic ingredients is very effective at erasing minor scratches from the car’s body. The market offers various abrasion levels to achieve the best outcome. Once you select the ideal product for your vehicle, apply it with a microfiber cloth to the scratched area until the marks vanish. Conclude the process by drying the area with a clean cloth. The method is quick and straightforward.
Repair Cloths :
Infused with a special car polish, can eliminate small marks or scratches. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the damaged area. Then, repeatedly rub the cloth over it to evenly distribute the polish, ensuring the scratches are fully covered. Finally, wipe away any excess product with a clean, dry cloth.
Felt Pens :
Available in many automotive stores, specifically designed to conceal scratches on a vehicle’s body. It is essential that the color of the marker matches your car’s paint. The first step is to thoroughly clean the area affected by the scratch using soap and water, then dry it completely with a clean towel. Subsequently, apply the marker over the scratch and allow it to dry. The final step involves applying a layer of polishing wax to the treated area.
Spray Paint :
For shallow scratches on your car, spray paint offers a straightforward and easy solution for removal. It’s important to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines when applying the paint. Before starting, ensure the surrounding area is protected with masking tape to avoid damaging the rest of the car’s paint. Apply the spray paint in short bursts to the scratched area, allowing it to dry for fifteen minutes before adding another coat. Continue this process as needed until the scratch is no longer visible.
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