car scratch repair

Auto scratch repair doesn’t have to be hard — especially not when you have this how-to guide written by our seasoned specialists. Here’s exactly what you need to do to complete your car paint scratch repair at little to no cost. 

Why Do Auto Scratches Happen? 

Scratches can happen for virtually any reason. You might have dinged a door against a retaining wall, been scratched when someone was pulling out of a parking space, or run up against a quick-moving rock on the highway. Regardless, car body repair and car paint job repair are possible — even without having access to an auto painting shop. 

DIY Auto Scratch Repair Options Explained 

There are many different ways to tackle your recent vehicle scratch, from petroleum jelly to (as a last resort), professional assistance. 

Here’s what you need to know about car paint scratch repair at home. 

Petroleum Jelly 

This option is great if you’ve got something minor to deal with. All you need to do is clean the area surrounding the scratch and apply the jelly — thoroughly covering the area. 

Nail Polish 

This option works if you’ve got exposed metal around the scratch, keeping you from sustaining rust damage and worsening the appearance of your car’s paint. Clean the area, dry it well, and apply clear nail polish to stop the staining. 

Toothpaste 

This option acts similarly to a polishing compound (which you could also use for scratch repair; it’s just more expensive!) 

Clear the area, dry it well, and buff it into the scratch with a cloth to minimize its appearance. 

What Do I Do If It’s Something Serious? 

Sometimes, you have to call in the professionals — especially for long and deep scratches. If you’re coming up against a scratch you can’t fix, connect with the team at W&L Collision Center. We work to keep your job as accessible as possible, offering you a price (and a timeline) that you’ll love. 
Connect with us online today to learn more.