How to hide a car scratch in auto detailing?
The problem
Before we talk in detail about how to hide scratches car paint. First, let me help you understand the problem. The real problem is with your mind, not your car.
“I used to have a car that had a really nice finish on it and would stress about keeping it clean and free of scratches all the time.” If you think these scratches are too annoying, you are a OCD. Don’t worry, we are on a same page. They certainly do matter!
- Why do I keep scratching my car?
- How do cars get scratches?
- Why do black cars scratch so easily?
- New car scratches easily than old car?
So, if you are frustrating about why do I always scratch my car? It’s time for a new solution. Otherwise, just leave them there.
Can you see scratches on a white car?
Not at all, right? It seem that black car and scratches are close friends. They stick together until you sell it. And scratch on a black car are common sense.
What’s about white car? “I know this sounds stupid. But I can’t seem to find a way to see the minor scratches swirls on white metallic paints”. You’re right. It’s not an easy job.
As you can see in above picture, the differences between paint color and scratch color can help you see scratches. However, we don’t have that on a white car. Because paint color and scratch color are nearly the same.
What is a car scratch?
Many people call any types of damages on car “car scratches”. Yes, we agreed with this conclusion. We are not an automotive technician, right? So, take it easy.
- We can sort these damages based on the depth. The deeper it is, the more damage you have.
- We also can sort these damages based on the width. The wider it is, the more materials you need to fill in.
We will get into this debate shortly.
How to make car scratches less noticeable?
So, now you know that how to see scratches on car depends on the depth and the width of a scratch.
Darker colored vehicles, particularly those with a pristine black finish, tend to show swirl marks more prominently. This is because the darker the surface, the more obvious any disruption in its uniform reflection of light becomes.
On the other hand, light-colored vehicles, such as whites or silvers, can mask swirl marks more effectively. This is due to their increased light reflection, which helps to hide minor imperfections.
Auto Detailing has some different types of approaches as follows:
- Filling up the holes or the scratches.
- Making sharp edges into round edges.
- Remove scratches until the deepest angle.
Hide paint scratches
What is a deep car scratch?
Deep scratches penetrate beyond the clear coat. And they reach the base coat or even the metal surface of the vehicle. They are typically caused by more significant impacts or contact with sharp objects.
How to know how deep a car scratch is?
The first step to know a car scratch is to identify the type of scratch you have. To do this, you can use your fingernail to catch the scratch.
- If your fingernail doesn’t catch the scratch, it’s a clear coat scratch.
- However, if your fingernail does catch the scratch, it’s either a primer-level or deep-paint scratch.
Another way is to look at the color of the exposed metal.
- If the exposed metal is silver or gray, it’s a primer-level scratch.
- In case the exposed metal is brown or rusty, it’s a deep-paint scratch.
EZ Solution 1: Cover up scratches
This is the simple solution that you can hide scratches on white car and on black cars, too.
We have all seen the scratches penetrate into paintwork. So, this solution is trying to fill up all the blank. A lot of detailer will criticize us on this suggestion. But, this is a solution for OCD guys who love detailing at home.
How can it happen?
Many of the off-the-shelf waxes contain fillers and diffusers to help hide wash marks. In our opinion, wax does make a difference. The fillers fill the scratches somewhat. And the diffusers diffuse the light, so any reflection isn’t quite so harsh. It’s not magic, but you can tell the difference.
- First, it’s cheap to buy. You can buy different types of car waxes in just a minute.
- Next, you can do it yourself. Of course, make sure the vehicle is clean.
- More? Waxes give a deep wet look that looks so flawless.
- Lastly, it’s easy to clean the car with wax because the paint is super smooth.
So, waxing your car is more than just a visual upgrade. It’s a sort of pain relief for your eyes. Don’t expect it to hide key scratches though.
EZ Solution 2: Buff out scratches
Using a car buffer to remove scratches is another solution that widely acceptable in auto detailing.
Why?
Because experienced detailers can make better reflective surfaces that can make for stunning mirror paintwork.
You have to use compound to remove scratches from the clear coat. And it means that you remove a car scratch and the paint layer at the same time.
So, the more aggressive the buffer is, the deeper it can cut. If it goes past the clear coat then it’s not good. You need to re-paint then add clear coat again. Professional detailers at EZ must have a paint thickness gauge to check every single time they polish a vehicle. That’s why they will need some extra time for paint correction packages.
This type of work is much time consumption. You can’t miss a spot. You can either damage any spot, too. After you compound the area of the scratch then you can use wax or paint sealant. hese treatments can effectively remove swirl marks and restore the paint to its original luster.
EZ Solution 3: PPF over scratches
Applying the paint protection film over scratches is another solution. It’s still a controversy topic among auto detailing industry.
Some might say it reduce the scope of work and save time. Others said it’s a better way to keep original paint untouched. We agreed with these ideas, too. And, there is nothing wrong with applying PPF over paint defects.
However, you will see slight air pockets around the defects. When the paint is flat, you can’s see anything. In case the paint has some deep scratches or some areas with touch-up paint applied, you will see defects more noticeable.
Later, a high gloss PPF will magnify the imperfections. Think of applying screen protector on your cracked smart phone screen, that’s how it would look like.
In most cases, we recommend applying PPF over panel that is defect-free. And you get the best protection job. We offer various cosmetic repair options such as Paint Correction, Polishing and PPF that suitable with your vehicle condition. And we can refer out to reputable body shops for any paint and body work.
EZ Solution 4: Paint Jobs
If the car scratches are deep or plentiful, we suggest to see the local body shop.
Why?
If you have one or two of these scratches, you can likely repair them yourself. Or you can try these above solutions. But if there are lots of scratches on your paint, you may want to talk to a professional at an auto body shop. A good paint job can ensure that your car maintains its luster without much time and cost.
In come cases, re-paint may be the right choice if you have a good Warranty.
FACT: Most warranties won’t cover paint damage. Your car’s paint job protects your vehicle and maintains its appearance. But exposure to the sun, road debris and other factors can ruin it over time. The only exception to this is manufacturing defects.
While it’s the most expensive option (costs vary by project and business), such a service involves stripping away the existing paint and applying a fresh coat. Submitting a warranty claim properly can help you a better paint job.
Do you have black car paint correction in Thao Dien (Quan 2)?
Yes, we can. Just drop us a message via Whatsapp at 035 499 6491 (English). We will contact you shortly.
Car scratches
FAQ
Does car wash scratch paint?
Yes, this happen most of the times. Sometimes, you are too hurry to follow these steps. You can also use the wrong car wash detailing kit.
The common problem is using dirty tools and mistakes in car wash techniques.
How many scratch treatment for cars?
There are many treatments on how do you remove scratches from a car. Nothing is the best scratch remover for a car.
Sometime you can fix a car scratch yourself. However, we recommend you have a check with us before doing it. Why? Because we can give you a free estimate within 5 minutes inspection at our detailing shop.
Our experience detailer can show you:
- What type of car scratch do you have?
- What causes scratches on your car?
- Will it cause car paint to fade?
- What car scratches can be buffed out with us?
- What car scratches can not be removed?
- Places that repair scratches on cars near An Phu, Thao Dien area
- How much does it cost to repair scratches on cars?
- Even scratch repair car estimate from a body shop near us.
But, the most important thing is how long will it take to repair scratches on a vehicle. Because, everyone is busy with their jobs. And making an appointment, driving to places repairing scratches and driving back home are so frustrated. We can help you with all-in-one service that Price Match Guarantee.
How much is scratch remove for car?
Well, it depends on the situation. We need to see your car. Just 5 minutes and we will send you a free estimate.
Should I use black car deep scratch remover?
We don’t think so. It’s a temporary solution for your eyes. However, you can mess up with these scratch remover.
And, scratches won’t come off easily like that. It will cost you time and effort to fix or to remove scratches on cars again.
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