Scratches on a car body are one of the most common discomforts for any driver. Whether it’s rubbing with another vehicle in a parking lot, accidentally passing a key, tree branches, or even simple daily wear and tear, these marks end up affecting the aesthetics of the vehicle and, if they are not treated in time, can lead to major problems like oxidation. The good news is that there is a quick and cost-effective, in-house method to reduce or eliminate surface scratches without having to go to a specialist workshop.
Why do scratches appear and how to identify them?
Before we get into car painting, it’s important to understand what type
of rayon we have. The body is made up of several layers: sheet metal, an
anti-corrosive primer, the color layer and, above all, a layer of
transparent varnish which protects the color and gives it luminosity.
Stripes are mainly classified into three types:
Surfaces: only affects the varnish layer. They are the most common and easiest to repair at home.
Media: they pass through the varnish and reach the colored layer. They require more work, but they can also be reduced.
Deep: they reach the primer or even the metal. In these cases, it is advisable to go to a professional.
To know if a scratch is superficial, simply run your nail over it: if it
does not stick, it is a slight mark that can be corrected with the
polishing foam method.
Materials needed
One of the great advantages of this technique is that it does not
require expensive tools or advanced knowledge. The basic elements are:
Polishing foam or body varnish (blower wax can also be used).
A soft, clean microfiber cloth.
Hot water and neutral soap for pre-cleaning.
Another dry microfiber cloth for the final finish.
Optional demineralized water for rinsing.
Step by step to remove scratches
1. Clean the affected area
Before applying a product, it is essential that the surface is
completely free of dust, dirt or dirt. Any particles left on the paint
during polishing can generate additional micro-rays. Wash the area with
lukewarm water and neutral soap, rinse well and dry with a clean
microfiber cloth.
2. Apply polishing foam
Place a small amount of polishing foam on the microfiber fabric, not
directly on the body. With this it reaches to work an area of the
approximate size of an A4 sheet. It’s best to apply little product and
add if necessary, instead of overdoing it from the start.
3. Rub in circular motions
Start polishing the scratched area with smooth, steady circular motions,
applying moderate pressure. There is no need for excessive force: the
work is carried out by the soft abrasive components of the foam, which
unevenly lower the varnish layer until the rayon is paired. Continue the
movement for one or two minutes per section.
4. Remove the excess
Once the area is worked, take the second microfiber cloth, clean and
dry, and remove the residue from the varnish with gentle movements. At
this time, you will be able to observe how the rayon has significantly
graduated or completely disappeared, depending on its depth.
5. Review and repeat if necessary
If the rayon is still noticeable, you can repeat the process one or two
more times. In slightly more pronounced stripes, it usually takes two or
three passes to achieve optimal results. The important thing is not to
overuse polishing in the same area, as excess can wear out the varnish
too much.
Additional tips for a better result
Working in the shade: avoid doing this procedure under direct sunlight,
as heat can dry the product too quickly and affect the result.
Use of the clean cloths: Never reuse a dirty cloth or have been in
contact with the floor. Particles trapped in the fabric can damage the
paint.
Apply there wax to there end: once the repair is complete, it is
advisable to apply a layer of protective wax to seal the area and return
the original shine.
Do not overpressure: more pressure does not mean a better result. Consistency and technique are more important than strength.
When to go to a professional
If when passing the nail over the scratch it is clearly hung, or you see
the color of the metal or primer underneath, this method will not be
sufficient. In these cases, it is more advisable to consult a veneer and
painting workshop, as it will be necessary to repaint the affected area
to avoid oxidation.
This method with polishing foam is ideal for aesthetic maintenance of the vehicle and for eliminating slight marks that accumulate over time. With just a few minutes of work and minimal investment, the car can return to its original look and look a little fresh from the dealership.