When you shop for a used or repossessed car, it’s normal to see vehicles that have some scratches on them. But don’t let this deter you from making an offer! Most nicks and scuffs are repairable, which means you can improve the appearance of your new vehicle with little effort. Not only that, but repairing scratches also protects the paint and metal underneath so that you can avoid more problems down the road.
Below are three types of car scratches and how to repair them.
1. Clear Coat Scratches
Clear coat scratches are the most superficial types of scratches, which means they are also the easiest to fix. The clear coat is a layer of transparent paint that protects the color coat and primer coat of paint from UV rays, oxidation and other types of contaminants, including acid rain and road salt. If this layer gets damaged, it can cause the paint to fade.
Fortunately, most light clear coat scratches can be fixed by polishing the clear coat with a rubbing compound. This removes the damaged layer and protects the paint. If the scratch is deep, you may need to sand the area first. This will remove any rough edges and make it easier to apply the compound.
2. Paint Scratches
Paint scratches are not uncommon, but they can certainly change the appearance of your vehicle. They are slightly more invasive than clear coat scratches because they extend down into the enamel color layer of your vehicle’s finish, but they can typically be repaired on your own.
You can purchase a car scratch repair kit that includes all the items needed to repair the paint scratch, such as a scratch remover, microfiber cloth and a paste or wax to restore the car’s shine. Make sure to follow all the instructions, and choose a higher quality paint kit to ensure the best results.
3. Primer Scratches
Primer is an undercoat used to prepare a car for painting. Typically, primers are used when refinishing car bodies because they build up and level rough surfaces. Primer can also prevent rust and corrosion from damaging the vehicle.
If a scratch goes into the primer, you’ll want to address it right away so that it doesn’t have the opportunity to create rust. We recommend speaking with a professional because these are deep scratches that go through all paint layers. Usually, the repair process will start with a new primer application, buffing and polishing.
Some scratches are more invasive than others, requiring immediate attention. But the important thing to remember is that most car scratches are minor and can be repaired at home or by an auto body shop. In other words, don’t let a scratch stop you from buying an otherwise perfectly good repo car! Find a vehicle that you love today at Repofinder.com!