Every car owner has at one time sought auto scratch repair services. Despite our best efforts, car scratches are inevitable. The annoying part is that most auto scratches seem to appear out of the blue. Do not blame yourself, however. Car paints and coating are more delicate than you would expect. The good news is that car scratches can be repaired easily by a professional auto scratch repair technician. This article covers all aspects of scratch repair, from causes to the repair process.
Types of Car Scratches
Although all car scratches are bad, some leave worse scars than others. Basic knowledge of the different types of scratches is essential to auto scratch repair. Generally, car scratches are classified into different levels.
Surface Scratch
As the name suggests, this type of scratch only affects the clear coat. It is the colorless layer added on modern cars to protect the paint job from harsh outdoor elements. If you are going to get a scratch, this is the one you want. The auto scratch repair for this kind of damage is simple. So, how can you tell if it is a clear coat scratch? Well, do the “fingernail test.” This involves running your fingernails across the affected area. If your fingernails do not catch it, then it is a surface scratch.
Paint Scratch
Paint scratches are every car owner’s nightmare. You do not need the fingernail test for this one. Just from looking, you can tell since the paint in the affected area will be different. You know it is bad when you can see the bare metal. The auto scratch repair for this kind of damage is more labor-intensive. It is not recommended to fix this at home unless you know what you are doing. Paint scratches can cause rusting.
Primer Scratch
It is okay to weep a little if you get this kind of scratch. The primer is the layer beneath the basecoat of the paint. A scratch that is deep enough to reach this layer requires more work. The damaged area will need sanding and reapplication of the primer. Get a professional scratch repair as soon as possible. Otherwise, you risk causing further damage to your car.
Common Causes of Car Scratches
Most scratches seem to appear from nowhere. It makes it harder to prevent auto scratches if you do not know what caused them. You can reduce the need for auto scratch repair by looking out for the following causes.
Improper Washing and Drying - The wrong choice of car washing material can cause scratches. Ideally, you want a soft piece of cloth. Consider synthetic microfibers that are designed for car washing. Another concern is the choice of detergent. Avoid laundry and dish washing detergents as these can strip off the protective coating like wax.
Automatic Car Washes - Some automatic car washes do more harm than good. Dirt from previous vehicles can collect on the brushes. The accumulated dirt acts like sandpaper and causes abrasion. Even touchless car washes can cause scratching if dirt is left to accumulate.
Car Accidents - Car crashes are the most obvious cause of scratching, with 6.7 million crashes annually. The level of damage depends on the severity of the accident. You can get scratches from rear-ending and other minor fender benders. In most cases, you will need more than just auto scratch repair after an accident.
Intentional Damage - Not everyone will be pleased with your shiny ride. Some people intentionally key other cars out of jealousy. Keying causes deep scrapes that run along the surface of the panel. Be careful where you park your car.
Rocks and other Road Debris - Weather changes and wear cause pebbles to loosen. When vehicles pass by, they are launched into the air onto oncoming traffic. These airborne rocks and debris are responsible for most scratches and windshield chipping. There is little you can do about it except getting auto scratch repair services.
Auto Scratch Repair Process
Some scratches are so superficial you can fix them at home with a kit. Others are more complicated and require more expertise. You must know the difference. Here is a step-by-step explanation of what goes on during auto scratch repair.
Damage Assessment - The first step is determining the type of scratch. The information gathered determines the subsequent auto scratch repair processes. Factors like the depth, size, and length of the scratch determine the tools and supplies needed.
Cleaning - These areas must be cleaned with a mild detergent and a soft towel to remove any surface contaminates. Then dry off with a towel to prevent water spots.
Sanding -Tape off the area surrounding the scratch to mark your working area. Sanding with sandpaper is sufficient for superficial scratches. Sometimes starting with 80 grit and working your way up to 600 grit sandpaper. However, deeper scars need professional auto scratch tools like a sander and sanding pads. Sometimes it is necessary to sand to bare metal.
Rinsing - After sanding to satisfaction, another round of cleaning is a must. The tapes are removed, and the sanded area is rinsed with water and some alcohol. The surrounding is then taped off again to protect the exposed paint.
Primer, Paint, and Waxing - A uniform layer of primer is applied to the affected area. It is given time to dry and then sanded until smooth. Another layer of primer is then added, and the process is repeated. After the primer comes the paint. Color-matching is done to ensure the car is uniform. This is followed by a clear coat that is left to cure. The final step of the auto scratch repair is polishing and waxing.
Why You Need a Professional Auto Scratch Repair
It is possible to perform a DIY auto scratch repair at home with the help of repair kits. However, this option is only recommended for those who know a thing or two about cars. Below are some reasons why a professional auto scratch repair is still the best way to go.
Comprehensive Assessment - To the untrained eye, all scratches may seem alike. Attempting to use an auto scratch repair kit on deep scratches will not get you anywhere. Only a pro will correctly diagnose the damage and use the right methods.
No-Risk of Further Damage - A tiny, harmless scratch can turn into something deeper if you do not know what you are doing. For instance, you may sand a larger area than necessary. Consumer Report warns motorists against using repair pens on deeper scratches. You can skip all this headache and take the car for professional auto scratch repair.
Professionals Have All the Necessary Tools -
DIY kits are great, but they are only meant for hairline scratches. For deeper scrapes, you will need a sander, sanding pads, ventilator, and color-matching tools. Most car owners do not have this equipment just lying around in their garage. It is cheaper to get help from a professional auto scratch repair than buying expensive equipment.
Get Professional Auto Scratch Repair Today
Scratches ruin the aesthetic value of your car and open the door for other bodywork problems. However, attempting to handle auto-scratch repair on your own might make things worse. Will’s Auto Body is a first-class repair center. Our repair shop is certified by both the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and the Autobody Association. Contact us today and get the best professional auto scratch repair in Concord.