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Fixing a scratch on the side of your car can seem daunting, but with the right approach, you can often achieve professional-looking results yourself. Whether it’s a minor scuff or a deeper gouge, this guide will walk you through the steps to Fix Scratch Side Of Car, saving you time and money.

First, you need to assess the damage. How deep is the scratch? Is it just a surface scratch or does it go down to the primer or bare metal? This determines the best course of action. For light scratches, a simple polish might suffice. Deeper scratches might require touch-up paint, and the deepest may necessitate professional help. Looking to increase your car’s value? Check out these cheap fixes to up car value.

Identifying the Scratch Type

Clear Coat Scratches

These are the easiest to fix scratch side of car. They appear as light, superficial marks and don’t penetrate the colored paint layer. A rubbing compound or polishing compound is usually enough to buff these out.

Paint Scratches

These are deeper than clear coat scratches and expose the primer underneath. You’ll need touch-up paint for these. Careful application and a bit of patience are key here. You can also learn how to fix top coat on car if the top coat is damaged.

Deep Scratches

These scratches reach the bare metal and require more extensive repair. You’ll need to prime the area before applying touch-up paint. Severe scratches might require professional intervention. Consider exploring options for fixing scratches and dents in car for a more comprehensive repair.

DIY Scratch Repair: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly wash and dry the scratched area. Any dirt or debris can interfere with the repair process.

2. Assess the depth: Determine the type of scratch as outlined above.

3. Apply rubbing compound (for clear coat scratches): Use a microfiber cloth and apply the rubbing compound in a circular motion. Buff until the scratch disappears.

4. Apply touch-up paint (for paint and deep scratches): Clean the area with rubbing alcohol. Apply the touch-up paint carefully, using a fine-tipped brush or a touch-up pen. Allow the paint to dry completely.

5. Sand and level (for deep scratches): Use fine-grit sandpaper (2000-grit) to carefully level the dried touch-up paint with the surrounding area. Wet sanding is recommended to minimize further scratching. If you’re dealing with scratches on the interior, here’s a guide on how to fix scratches on plastic inside car.

6. Apply clear coat (for paint and deep scratches): Once the touch-up paint is leveled, apply a thin layer of clear coat to protect the repair and restore the shine. You can also fix scratches inside car using similar techniques.

7. Polish and wax: After the clear coat has dried, polish and wax the entire area to blend the repair seamlessly with the rest of the car’s paint.

“A common mistake people make is not cleaning the area properly before starting the repair,” says automotive expert, Robert Miller. “Contaminants can get trapped under the touch-up paint, leading to imperfections.” Another tip from Maria Sanchez, a seasoned auto detailer: “Patience is key. Don’t rush the process, especially when applying touch-up paint. Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat.”

Conclusion

Fixing a scratch on the side of your car can be a manageable DIY project if you understand the type of scratch and follow the correct steps. By taking the time to assess the damage and using the appropriate materials, you can achieve impressive results and restore your car’s appearance. Need further assistance? Connect with us at AutoTipPro at +1 (641) 206-8880 or visit our office at 500 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States. We’re happy to help you fix scratch side of car!