remove scratches from car paint Page 9

First, figure out if it’s just the clear coat or a scar to the metal—run a fingernail across it; if it catches, it’s serious. For light swirls and scuffs, wash, dry, then use a clay bar, followed by a mild cutting compound on a foam pad, and finish with polish and a sealant or wax. Work small areas, keep the pad clean, and don’t press like you’re kneading dough—let the product do the work. If the scratch catches your nail, you’ll need touch-up paint, then clear coat, then a careful wet sand and polish, or, if you value your sanity, a professional. Always test on an inconspicuous spot first, avoid the sun, and step away if it gets hot; burning through clear coat is a fast-track to colourful language. When you’re done, protect the area—good sealant now means fewer regrets later.