Different Types of Car Scratches and How To Fix

Getting a car scratch is inevitable, but understanding and knowing how to fix them can save you time and money.

In this post, I will go over the different types of car scratches and how to repair them. I will also provide a tip on how to prevent types of scratches on cars.

Keep reading for more information!

Types Of Car Paint Scratches

Most types of car paint scratches can be classified into one of the following categories:

1. Clear coat scratches
2. Paint(base coat) scratches
3. Primer scratches
4. Car deep scratches

Clear coat scratches

Clear coat is a layer of protection applied over the paint. It protects the paint from UV rays, minor scratches, and other wear and tears. These are the most common car scratches and are usually not very deep.

You can try polishing the area with a rubbing compound to fix clear coat scratches. Polishing will remove a thin layer of the clear coat and hopefully remove the scratch. If this does not work, you can try sanding the area with 1500 grit sandpaper. It will remove a thicker layer of the clear coat and may require you to re-polish the area afterward.

Base coat scratches

Bases coat is the layer of paint that gives your car its color. These are scratches that go through the clear coat and into the base coat of paint.

These scratches are more difficult to repair and will often require repainting. If you are going to repaint the area yourself, make sure to prep the area properly and use matching paint.

Primer scratches

A primer coat is a layer applied before the base coat of paint. It helps to protect the metal from rust and corrosion. This type of car scratch usually occurs when something hits the car with a lot of force.

Primer scratches will often require repainting to be adequately fixed.

Deep Scratches

Deep scratches on a car are the most severe type of paint scratch. They penetrate through the paint and into the metal underneath.

Sanding, priming, and repainting can fix deep scratches to metal on car.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix a Car Scratch?

The price will depend on the car model, paint color, location, and auto shops. The deeper scratches your car has, the more time and tools are needed to fix them.

Below is the price range from my experience:

• Scuff and clear coat scratches: $100- $300

• Primer coat scratches: $400- $1000

• Deep scratches: $800- $2000

How To Avoid Car Scratches?

The best way to avoid car paint scratches is to avoid contact with things that can damage the paint. When washing your vehicle, use a soft cloth or sponge and gentle soap. Do not use harsh chemicals or scrub the paint vigorously. When drying your vehicle, use a soft towel or chamois.

How To Cover Scratches On Car?

The best way to cover scratches on a car is using car scratch removers.

How do car scratch removers work?

There are a few different ways that car scratch removers can work. Some products will rely on abrasives to remove the scratch, while others will use chemicals. Abrasive-based products will usually require you to use more elbow grease, but they can be effective. Chemical-based products typically work more quickly, but they may also damage your car’s paint if used incorrectly.

How to choose a car scratch remover?

When you are trying to remove scratches from your car, there are a few things that you will want to keep in mind.

First, you will want to make sure that you choose a product designed for use on cars. There are many products on the market that claim to be able to remove scratches from cars, but they may not be suitable for your specific vehicle.

Second, you will want to consider the severity of the scratch. If the scratch is deep, you may need to use a more robust product. However, if the scratch is just surface level, you can probably get away with using a less-powerful product.

Finally, you will want to think about the value of your car. If you have an expensive car, you may not want to use a product that will damage it.

Below are three car scratch remover suggestions for light scratches that I have used.

Scratch vs. Scuff: What’s The Difference?

A scuff is a shallow surface-level mark that is usually caused by something rubbing against the paintwork. A scratch, on the other hand, penetrates the clear coat and leaves a permanent mark.

Please watch the below video to understand more about different types of car scratches.

See also: Best Car Color to Hide Dirt and Scratches