Even though white cars do a great job hiding scratches and dirt, they are still susceptible to scratches, scuffs, and other damage. But if you have a scratch that is driving you crazy, there are a few things you can do to try and fix it. Let's take a look at the options below.
In order to remove scratches from your white car, try the following methods:
- Scratch repair kit
- WD-40
- Toothpaste
- Polish or buff
- Go to a professional
As you can see, there are different methods for removing a scratch from your white car. In this article, we will discuss each method in more detail so that you can decide which one is best for you. In addition, we will answer other frequently asked questions about car scratches, so read on!
How Do I Remove A Scratch From My White Car?
While they may not be for everyone, there is no doubt that white cars do a great job hiding scratches. However, as the owner, it's easy to let a scratch bother you.
After all, you know it's there, even if no one else does. While taking your car to a professional can be the best option, it's not always the most affordable.
Fortunately, you can do a few things to try and remove scratches from your white car on your own. However, keep in mind that depending on the severity of the scratch, you may not be able to completely remove it.
But in some cases, you may be able to make it much less noticeable. Let's take a look at each method in more detail.
Before trying any of these methods, be sure to wash your car and dry it completely. You could make the scratch worse if you don't.
Scratch Repair Kit
One option you have is to use a scratch repair kit. These kits can be found at most auto stores and usually come with everything you need to fix the scratch.
The best part is that they are relatively easy to use. Simply follow the directions that come with the kit, and you should be able to repair the scratch in no time.
Scratch repair kits typically come with fine sandpaper which is used to smooth out the area around the scratch. Next, you will use polish or wax to fill in the scratch.
Some will also come with touch-up paint, but you want to ensure you get the right color. If you can't find an exact match, see if the dealership where you purchased the car can help you out.
WD-40
If you have WD-40 lying in your garage or house, you may be able to use it to remove the scratch from your white car.
WD-40 is an effective solution for many car problems, including fading scratches. To use it, simply spray the WD-40 onto the scratch and wait 60 seconds.
Then, take a microfiber cloth and apply pressure to the scratch while you move the cloth in a circular motion. You should start to see the scratch fade away. If it doesn't completely disappear, you can try repeating the process.
Toothpaste
We know your car doesn't have teeth, but toothpaste can actually do a pretty good job of removing scratches.
The ingredients in toothpaste, such as baking soda, can be effective at filling in small scratches. To use it, simply apply a small amount of toothpaste to the scratch with a microfiber cloth.
Gently rub the area in a circular motion until you start to see the scratch fade away. Once it's gone, wash off any excess toothpaste with warm water and dry the area.
Be sure to use smooth toothpaste and not one with beads or other abrasive ingredients. You don't want to end up making the scratch worse.
Polish Or Buff
If you have a buffer at home, you can try using it to remove the scratch from your white car. Start by applying a small amount of polish or buffing compound to the scratch. Then, turn on the buffer and slowly move it over the area in a circular motion.
You should start to see the scratch fade away. Once it's gone, wash the area with soap and water and dry it off.
Keep in mind that using a buffer can be tough if you've never done it before. If you're not comfortable doing it yourself, we recommend taking your car to a professional.
Go To A Professional
Last but not least, go to a professional. If you have a deep scratch that doesn't seem to be fading away, your best bet is to take it to someone who knows what they're doing.
A professional will be able to assess the damage and determine the best course of action. For example, they may need to sand down the area around the scratch and repaint it.
But in most cases, they should be able to fix the scratch without too much trouble. While this is the most expensive option, it's often the best way to ensure the scratch is completely gone.
How Much Does It Cost To Remove A Scratch?
As we mentioned earlier, depending on the severity of the scratch, you may be able to remove it yourself.
If the scratch is relatively minor, you can probably get away with using one of the methods we listed above. These will usually cost you around $20 or less.
However, if the scratch is deep or extensive, you may need to take your car to a professional. The cost will vary depending on the severity of the damage, but you can expect to pay around $100 or more.
Keep in mind that this is just a general estimate. The final cost will depend on the specific repair shop you go to and the type of damage your car has.
Why Do Some Scratches Cost More To Remove Than Others?
In addition to the factors we mentioned earlier, the price will also vary depending on the location of the scratch. For example, door creases and hoods are usually more expensive to repair than other areas.
This is because these areas are more difficult to access and require special tools to fix them. As a result, the cost of labor will be higher.
Also, if paint is needed to fix the scratch, that will also add to the overall cost.
How Can You Prevent Car Scratches?
No matter the color of your car, scratches are always a pain. Not only do they ruin the look of your car but they can also be expensive to fix. The other worry is the scratches rusting. But if you take care of them quickly, you can usually avoid that.
That's why it's important to do whatever you can to prevent scratches from happening in the first place. Here are a few tips to help you out:
- Wash your car regularly.
- Park in covered or garage parking whenever possible.
- Be careful when putting things in the trunk.
- Avoid driving on dirt roads.
- Use a car cover.
- Park away from other cars.
These are simple things you can do to prevent your car from getting scratched. But if a scratch does happen, don't worry. Just follow the steps we listed above, and you should be able to get rid of it in no time.
Does Insurance Cover Car Scratches?
In most cases, it wouldn't make sense for your insurance company to cover a car scratch. This is because the cost of repair is usually relatively low. So unless the scratch is severe, it's not likely to cause any major damage to your car.
It may only make sense if you are in an accident. For example, if you were side-swiped by another car, the insurance company may cover the repair cost.
But in general, you shouldn't expect your insurance to cover the cost of a car scratch repair. In addition, if your deductible is high, it may not even be worth filing a claim.
Nonetheless, you can speak with your insurance agent to see if there are any circumstances under which they would cover the cost.
What Is Considered A Deep Car Scratch?
A deep scratch is one that goes through the clear coat and into the paint. This type of scratch will usually need to be repaired by a professional. To determine how deep a scratch is, you can simply run your fingernail over the scratch. If your fingernail gets caught, then it’s deep.
In addition, if the scratch is wider than a piece of paper, then it’s likely deep. And finally, if you can see the metal beneath the scratch, then it means the scratch is pretty severe.
If none of these apply, then one of the solutions we listed above should work just fine.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, one of these at-home solutions was able to help you remove the scratch from your car. Remember, the key is to act quickly. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that the scratch will become permanent.
Made it to the end? Here are other articles you might find helpful:
How To Remove Scratches From Matte Car Paint
Does Turtle Wax Remove Scratches?
How to Remove Scratches from Chrome [Bumper, Rims, and More!]