Key steps
Wash and dry your car first.
Always use a clean, soft, microfiber cloth.
Rub a coin-sized drop of toothpaste into small scratches.
For deeper scratches purchase a scratch-remover product (always follow the manufacturer’s instructions).
Did your car just get a scratch? If you have the right tools, you can fix scratches on a carand restore the paintwork with ease. Here we’ll show you 2 easy methods for how to remove scratches from your carincluding a step-by-step guide for each.
Always take care to test your chosen removal method on an inconspicuous part of your car first. This will ensure you don’t cause further damage to the paintwork.
How to remove scratches from car paint: 2 methods to fix scratches on a car
Here’s how to fix scratches on a car. Firstly, run a fingernail over the scratches. If your fingernail doesn’t catch in the scratches, try method 1. If you find it catches, try method 2.
For our first method, we’ll show you how to remove scratches from your carin 5 easy steps.
Firstly, wash and dry the car where it has been scratched. Start by using a hose to wash off any loose dirt and debris. Then use soap and a large sponge to clean the surface thoroughly before rinsing with clean water and drying it off with a clean, dry towel.
Add a coin-sized drop of toothpaste to a damp microfiber cloth. If the cloth is saturated with water, it won’t work. Make sure the cloth is just damp before adding the toothpaste. Take care to only use clean cloths, as you don’t want to add more scratches with anything on the surface of your cloth.
Using a circular motion, rub toothpaste into the scratch. Make sure that the toothpaste is evenly distributed across the surface of the scratch, using a small amount of pressure. If you need more, add another drop of toothpaste until you’ve buffed out the scratch.
Rinse your car. Either use a hose to spray your car surface clear or a clean microfiber cloth to remove all excess toothpaste.
You can repeat steps 2 – 4 up to twice more. Ensure you don’t apply more than three toothpaste applications in one area as it could end up damaging your car’s paintwork.
For our second method, we’ll show you how to remove a deep scratch from your carin 6 easy steps.
Start by washing your car. Take care to ensure the area that’s scratched is fully and thoroughly cleaned before applying any treatment. Any dirt or debris could lead to more scratches on your car surface.
Use a scratch-removal product. A specialised product is best when it comes to deeper surface scratches. Ask at your local car supply store for help if you’re unsure which one to purchase.
A coin-sized amount of your scratch-removal is all you need. Use a microfiber cloth to apply your product, following the manufacturer’s instructions on the label.
Work your scratch-removal product into the scratched area. Use either a circular or back and forth motion. Continue this until the product is well distributed over the surface of the scratch.
Wipe away all residue. Using a clean microfiber cloth, wipe away any excess product, ensuring you don’t allow it to dry on the car surface.
If needed, repeat steps 3 – 5. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before repeating the process, as some products may not be recommended for more than one use.
With our step-by-step guides to 2 different methods, we’ve now shown you how to remove scratches from your car. Make sure if there’s greater damage to your car, you seek specialist help and always follow manufacturer’s instructions when using any commercial products.