Depending on the damage, how much does it cost to fix scratches on a car can range from $140 to $3,500. If the scratches are on a clear coat, you don’t necessarily need to pay for a full paint job. However, if the scratches are in the primer, you should expect to pay between $500 and $1000 for a paint job. The costs will depend on the severity and the length of the scratch.
$140 to $3,500
If your scratch is deep, you will need to take your car to a body shop for repair. This will cost between PS180 and PS250 per panel. In some cases, you may be able to repair the scratch yourself by using touch up paint. However, if the scratch is deep and requires painting, the repair could cost hundreds of dollars or more. For this reason, you might want to consider DIY solutions first.
For shallow scratch levels, you can use Dr. Color Chip, which covers the scratch area. Deeper scratches will need a professional repair, but Dr. Color Chip can often hide them quite well. However, it doesn’t work miracles and can’t cover the entire scratch. To make your car scratch-free, visit a professional body shop. You should always get three estimates, and check online reviews of local auto body shops to ensure that you’re getting the best possible deal.
Sometimes, the more scratches and dents cannot be done at home, in that case you can check for Signal Garage, they are best in fixing problems with your car.
Precautions to take to prevent scratches on car
Light vehicle scratches can be frustrating. While they may not seem like a big deal, they can quickly turn into larger problems if you do not take measures to prevent them. To avoid them, park in a quiet location away from the busy road. Also, avoid parking under trees. Fruits, seeds, resin, and tree branches can fall onto your car’s paint and cause it to become scratched. If you must park under trees, try to park in an empty lot and avoid parking underneath them.
If you must wash your car, choose soft cloths and cleaning tools. Using a rag or a dry towel can cause scratches. Avoid using circular motions when cleaning, as this will cause friction and can even scratch the paint. Instead, clean from the bottom of your car and use light pressure. Always wash your car with the proper detergent. Avoid using microfiber cloths, as they contain dirt, which will cause scratches.
Clear-coat scratches don’t require a paint job
A few tips will help you remove surface-level scratches from clear-coat vehicles without having to spend a fortune on a paint job. First, you need to test the scratch with your finger. If your nail does not slide into the scratch, then the scratch is not a clear-coat scratch. If your finger does get caught in the scratch, then the scratch is probably paint or primer. The next step is to spray the scratch with soap and water. If it doesn’t disappear after getting wet, it is probably not a clear-coat scratch.
A car’s clear-coat is made to protect the paint job, which is why it needs a protective layer. Not only does the clear coat protect the paint from UV rays and other environmental factors, but it also absorbs abrasions. Deep scratches may not penetrate the clear coat, but surface scratches can be removed by a professional polish. Taking care to protect the clear coat will prevent further damage to the car’s finish.
Repairing scratches without a paint job
If you’re in need of a car scratch repair but don’t have the money to pay for a full paint job, you may be wondering what to do. Light scratches can be the result of an accident, collision, or another car. While a single light scratch doesn’t necessarily require a paint job, a grouping of them can be an eyesore. Scratches that go untreated can also rust the car.
For deeper scratches, you can paint the car. To do this, you should first wash the car thoroughly to remove any dirt and dust. Next, you’ll need 2,000-grit sandpaper, a paint spray and primer, and topcoat. A sanding pad may be necessary as well. If the scratch is still deep, you can repeat the process a few times. To prevent the scratches from coming back, it’s essential to keep the car clean and free from debris before repairing it.
Repairing scratches with touch-up paint
If you’re looking to repair small paint scratches on your car, touch-up paint is a good option. These kits typically contain basic touch-up paint for minor scratches. If you’re not sure which color your vehicle has, you can refer to your owner’s manual for help. It may be helpful to hire a professional to do touch-ups on more severe scratches. Depending on the size and severity of the scratch, repair can cost $400 to $1,000.
Apply the scratch remover to the scratch using a microfiber cloth or polishing pad. If you’re attempting to repair a long scratch, buff it in circular motions down the length of the scratch. You can also use a polishing compound to remove a deeper scratch. Make sure to clean away any excess paint before painting. Repeat the process if necessary, as the scratches will likely remain.