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How to get rid of scratches on your car

Make it look brand new again. - by James Tobin
  • 25 May 2022

If you’ve had your car for any length of time, chances are there are a few scuffs and scratches that annoy you, but aren’t worth an expensive trip to the panel beaters to fix. James shows you how you can easily get rid of them at home. Plus, he shares an easy tip to make your headlights shine using a very unlikely ingredient!

WATCH: How to get rid of scratches on your car

How to get rid of clear coat scratches

  • A good starting point is to think about the layers of the car. You’ve got the metal base, the primer, the paint and clear coat.
  • To find out if it’s a clear coat scratch, wet it and wipe it off. If the scratches become invisible and then reappear as it dries, you can remove them with a gentle and soft approach.
  • Use a special automotive sandpaper (it's very fine 3000 2500 grit). Soak for 30 minutes with plenty of water on the car and the paper.
  • Go against the grain very slowly, and sand back the area, checking every 5 seconds.
  • At this point, it's quite noticeable but after a polish and wax, it will look as if the scratches were never there.
how-to-get-rid-of-scratches-on-your-car
Getty

How to get rid of paint transfers

Another type of scuff you can remove is a paint transfer. This is caused by anything with paint coming in contact with your vehicle, such as a bollard.

  • In this instance, lubricate the area with WD40, followed by a magic eraser. Wet it thoroughly and work off the paint. Using soapy water, remove the WD40. 
  • Use a clay bar (a detailing tool you can buy at any automotive shop) and soapy water to lubricate the area.
  • You’ll be surprised to see all the paint marks come off easily.

How to restore your headlights

You can buy a headlight restoration kit at an automotive store but you probably have everything you already need lying around at home. 

  • All you need is some toothpaste, preferably one that's a bit gritty but if it's not, just add a bit of bicarb soda. 
  • You’ll also need a soft-headed toothbrush but use it gently so you don't leave any scratches on the headlights. 
  • Once it’s formed a paste, work it around the foggy areas, applying a bit of pressure but not too much pressure so you don’t scratch the glass. 
  • Lastly, work the paste into the headlights until you notice it starting to discolour and go yellow. This means the muck is coming off. 
  • Wipe away the wax using a soft cloth.

If you feel uncomfortable with any of these processes, head to your local automotive shop for more advice.

You might also like:

The difference between a hybrid and electric car

How to fix a chipped windscreen

James' top tips on buying a car

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James Tobin
James Tobin
James Tobin is a well-known Australian television identity having worked on Channel Seven for over a decade. James joins the Better Homes and Gardens team as their tech and motoring expert.

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