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Dealing with a big scratch on your car can be frustrating. Whether it’s a keying, parking lot mishap, or an encounter with a rogue shopping cart, knowing how to fix a big scratch can save you time and money. This guide will walk you through the process, from assessing the damage to achieving a professional-looking repair. how to fix big scratch on car

Assessing the Damage: Light Scratch vs. Deep Scratch

Before you start, you need to determine the severity of the scratch. Is it a light scratch that only affects the clear coat, or a deep scratch that penetrates the paint and even the primer? Knowing this will dictate the appropriate repair method. Run your fingernail across the scratch. If it catches, it’s likely a deep scratch requiring more than just a simple buffing.

How to Fix Light Scratches on a Car

For minor scratches that haven’t broken through the clear coat, a simple solution is often all that’s needed. You can use a rubbing compound or a scratch remover product. Apply the compound to a microfiber cloth and gently rub it onto the scratch using circular motions. [how to fix big deep scratches on car paint](https://autotippro.com/how to fix big deep scratches on car paint/) This process will level out the clear coat and minimize the appearance of the scratch.

Repairing Deep Scratches: A Step-by-Step Guide

Deep scratches require a more involved approach. This usually involves sanding, priming, painting, and clear coating.

1. Clean the Area: Thoroughly wash and dry the scratched area to remove any dirt or debris.

2. Sand the Scratch: Use fine-grit sandpaper (2000-grit) to smooth the edges of the scratch. Sand lightly to avoid removing too much paint.

3. Prime the Area: Apply primer to the sanded area using a small brush or touch-up pen. Let the primer dry completely.

4. Apply Touch-Up Paint: Carefully apply touch-up paint that matches your car’s color. Apply thin coats, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.

5. Apply Clear Coat: Once the paint is dry, apply a clear coat to protect the repair and blend it with the surrounding finish.

6. Sand and Polish: After the clear coat has dried, wet sand the area with very fine-grit sandpaper and then polish to achieve a smooth, even finish.

“When fixing deep scratches, patience is key,” advises John Smith, Automotive Repair Specialist at Smith Auto Body. “Multiple thin coats of paint will yield a far better result than one thick, gloppy coat.”

How Much Does it Cost to Fix a Big Scratch on a Car?

The cost of fixing a big scratch varies greatly depending on the severity, location, and your car’s make and model. how much to fix big scratch on car Minor scratches can be fixed for under $50 using DIY methods. However, deep scratches requiring professional repair can cost several hundred dollars or more.

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Preventing Future Scratches

Prevention is always better than cure. Protecting your car’s paint with a wax or sealant can help minimize the risk of scratches. Parking carefully and avoiding tight spaces can also help prevent those dreaded door dings and scratches.

Conclusion

Fixing a big scratch on your car can seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and tools, it’s often manageable. how to fix big scratches on your car Remember to assess the damage carefully and choose the appropriate repair method. For professional assistance or further guidance, connect with us at AutoTipPro. Our office is located at 500 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States. You can also reach us by phone at +1 (641) 206-8880. We’re here to help get your car looking its best again!