How to Safely Remove Fine Scratches on Car Paint: 7 Steps

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How to Safely Remove Fine Scratches on Car Paint: 7 Steps
How to Safely Remove Fine Scratches on Car Paint: 7 Steps

Video: How to Safely Remove Fine Scratches on Car Paint: 7 Steps

Video: How to Safely Remove Fine Scratches on Car Paint: 7 Steps
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Scratches in car paint are annoying, no matter how small or subtle they are. These scratches can be caused by low tree branches, other cars or car doors, self-service strollers in parking lots, small animals, toys, sports equipment, and so on. To get rid of these scratches, the car doesn't have to be repainted or overhauled. You simply learn a few techniques that can be done outside or in the garage.

Step

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Step 1. Clean the area that has scratches

Wash car panels with mild soap and warm water. Dry completely with a clean dry towel.

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Step 2. Apply wax or car polish

This is the smoothest (non-abrasive) way to handle minor scratches. Sometimes this is a great way to get rid of scratches.

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Step 3. Use acetone on the scratches

You can use an autodetailing solution, but an acetone product such as a nail polish remover can also work. Moisten a clean white cloth with acetone and rub it over the scratches. Keep rubbing until the scratch disappears.

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Step 4. Rub in the car rubbing compound

If the scratch doesn't go away after applying the acetone, prepare a car rubbing compound and a polishing pad. You can buy it at an auto shop or car salon.

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Step 5. Use sandpaper on stubborn scratches

Wet the sandpaper with water and gently rub it over the scratched area. Wet sanding will remove scratches and other defects by using a larger grit (roughness) against a lighter grit in car paint.

Use super fine sandpaper, preferably a wet/dry 2,000-3,000 grit when sanding. Drop 2-3 drops of dish soap to make it more slippery. This method will help sanding

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Step 6. Wipe the area with a white, dry, clean cloth

Clean the sanding dust first from the car body.

Safely Remove Fine Scratches from Your Car's Paint Step 7
Safely Remove Fine Scratches from Your Car's Paint Step 7

Step 7. Check for scratches, scuffs, and blemishes on the car paint

Rub back wax or car polish if you use a more abrasive method. Using a product such as acetone, polishing compound, or sandpaper will remove the protective wax and sealing layer, as well as scratches and scuffs. Use a car wax product and rub it over the car paint

Tips

You can use shoe polish to find light scratches. If you think you have scratches on your car, but are still unsure, apply a different colored shoe polish to the car paint on the affected area. Scratches will be immediately visible, if they are in the car paint

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