Keeping your car’s paint looking spotless isn’t just about pride—it also helps protect its value. Scratches can dull your car’s shine and, if ignored, cause further damage. Luckily, my grandpa taught me a simple, effective way to remove them. Here’s how to do it yourself.
1. Understand the Scratch
Scratches come in two types:
- Surface scratches – Affect only the clear coat and are easy to fix.
- Deep scratches – Cut through the paint or reach the metal, requiring extra care.
Run your fingernail over the scratch—if it catches, it’s deep.
2. Prepare the Area
Wash your car thoroughly and park it in the shade. Make sure the area around the scratch is clean and dry before you start.
You’ll need:
- Car wash soap and microfiber towels
- 2000–3000 grit sandpaper (for deeper scratches)
- Scratch remover or polishing compound
- Car wax or polish
- Applicator pads, masking tape, gloves, and eyewear
3. Fix the Scratch
Step 1: Clean and dry the area completely.
Step 2: For deep scratches, lightly wet-sand the area with 2000–3000 grit sandpaper until the scratch fades.
Step 3: Apply a small amount of scratch remover with an applicator pad and rub in circular motions.
Step 4: Wipe off any residue, then polish and wax the area to restore shine and protection.
4. Stay Safe
Wear gloves and work in a ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight—it makes compounds dry too fast and streak.
5. Prevent Future Scratches
Regularly wash and wax your car, avoid automatic car washes with stiff brushes, and park away from tight spaces or low branches.
Final Tip
My grandpa’s method proves you don’t need expensive tools to make your car look new again. With a few simple steps and a bit of patience, you can restore that flawless finish and keep your car shining for years.
