Scratches in your car’s paint can be frustrating. They’re annoying to look at and they can be expensive to repair. Not only that, but they can open up your paint for future rust problems if they are left untreated.

So here are some steps to cosmetically repair a deep scratch in your car’s paint.

Here’s what you’ll need to start this project:

  • Isopropyl alcohol
  • Blue shop towels
  • Touch up paint
  • Small touch up brush
  • Foam block
  • Filler putty
  • Squeegee
  • Paint leveler

To start, clean out the scratch with rubbing alcohol to remove any leftover wax, especially if the gouge occurred after a recent wax or sealant session. Because we are dealing with deep scratches in this blog, a simple touch up would not be effective or efficient when filling in the scratch.

Since deep scratches create an almost “crater” you will need to use filler putty to help level out the scratch. Squeeze the putty next to the scratch and use the squeegee to spread the putty into the scratch. Allow the glaze to dry for 2-3 minutes.

Next, wrap a shop towel around a foam-sanding block and apply liquid paint leveler. The leveler will remove the putty surrounding the scratch, but leave the excess putty within the scratch.

Gently wipe the towel across the putty to remove small sections at a time. Use a light pressure as the goal is to leave this scratch full of putty. It may take you a few minutes to get this done properly. Once it is finished the scratch should look like a thin red line the length of the original damage.

Next, use touch-up paint from your dealership or specialized online retailers and a very find brush. Apply the paint to the putty by dabbing, not brushing or wiping. Cover the area with a thin light coat and allow to dry overnight.

If more touch up is required, add one more thin coat or simply apply clear coat on top of the dried touch up paint. The main purpose of touch up, especially for deep scratches, is to protect the paint from future corrosion, however if done correctly, the byproduct of this process cosmetically make the scratch less obvious and annoying to look at.

The Best Auto Body Experts in Huntington, West Virginia

The Best Auto Body Experts in Huntington, West Virginia

Auto body repair is the process of repairing or restoring the body of a vehicle that has been damaged in an accident or due to other causes. This can include repairing or replacing damaged panels, paint repair and refinishing, and other repairs as needed to restore...

Icy Road Collision:What to Look for in Auto Body Shops

Icy Road Collision:What to Look for in Auto Body Shops

Imagine a foggy winter day, and you’re driving down the road at what you think is a safe speed. The roads look clear and you’re going the speed limit, but then out of nowhere you don’t have any traction under your tires and you and your car start to slide. You’ve...

Auto Body Experts in Huntington WV

Auto Body Experts in Huntington WV

If you are looking for auto body experts in Huntington, WV, look no further. East End Body Shop has unbeatable customer service, quality, and prices. This company is committed to improving the care toward people and their vehicles following an accident. The shop is...

Collision Repair Near Me East End Body Shop

Collision Repair Near Me East End Body Shop

Getting in a car accident can be overwhelming and flustering. The events following an accident will include speaking with your car insurance, whether you are at fault for the accident or not. Another step is searching the internet for a “collision repair near me.” The...

When To Replace Transmission Fluid at an Auto Body Shop Near Me

When To Replace Transmission Fluid at an Auto Body Shop Near Me

The most vital aspect of your vehicle's life expectancy is ensuring you perform the necessary maintenance, such as replacing the different oils including your transmission fluid. If you search for an auto body shop near me, their mechanics can perform the essential...