Forget going to the repair shop. Use these smart, cheap methods to fix car scratches at home

Car scratches are an unfortunate part of vehicle ownership. Whether it’s a minor scuff from a runaway shopping cart or a more noticeable scrape from a close encounter with a gate post, these blemishes can be both unsightly and aggravating. While the immediate reaction might be to rush your car to the nearest repair shop, this can often be an expensive endeavor.

Fortunately, there are smart, cost-effective methods that allow you to address car scratches at home. These DIY techniques not only save you money but also provide the satisfaction of maintaining your vehicle personally.

What You'll Need:

Non-gel toothpaste
A soft microfiber cloth
Water

Directions:

Clean the scratched area with water to remove any dirt or debris.
Apply a small amount of non-gel toothpaste directly onto the scratch.
Using a damp microfiber cloth, gently rub the toothpaste into the scratch in small, circular motions.
Continue buffing for about 2-3 minutes.
Wipe off any excess toothpaste with a clean, damp cloth and inspect the area.
If the scratch is still visible, repeat the process until it fades.

Why It Works:

Toothpaste contains mild abrasives that can smooth out the clear coat around the scratch, effectively minimizing its appearance. It's particularly effective on shallow scratches that have not penetrated the base coat of the paint.

What You'll Need:

WD-40
A soft microfiber cloth

Directions:

Start by cleaning the scratched area to remove any surface dirt.
Spray a liberal amount of WD-40 directly onto the scratch.
Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the solution to penetrate.
Using a microfiber cloth, gently buff the scratch in circular motions.
Wipe away any excess WD-40 and check the scratch. If necessary, repeat the process.

Why It Works:

WD-40 is known for its lubricating and protective properties, but it can also be used to reduce the visibility of minor scratches. The oil-based formula helps to fill in the shallow grooves of the scratch, creating a smoother surface that reflects light more evenly. This makes the scratch less noticeable, though it's important to note that this is a temporary fix and may need to be reapplied periodically.

What You'll Need:

Baking soda
Water
A soft microfiber cloth

Directions:

Mix two parts baking soda with one part water to create a thick paste.
Apply the paste directly to the scratch.
Using a damp microfiber cloth, gently rub the paste into the scratch in circular motions for a few minutes.
Rinse the area with water to remove any residue.
Dry the area with a clean cloth and assess the scratch. Repeat as necessary.

Why It Works:

Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive that can gently wear down the edges of the scratch, making it less visible. It's effective on surface-level scratches and can help restore the smoothness of your car's clear coat.

What You'll Need:

Clear or color-matching nail polish
A fine-tipped brush or the nail polish applicator

Directions:

Clean the scratch thoroughly to remove any dirt or grease.
Apply a thin layer of nail polish directly into the scratch, using a fine-tipped brush for precision if necessary.
Allow the nail polish to dry completely.
If the scratch is deep, apply multiple coats, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next.
Once dry, gently buff the area with a microfiber cloth to smooth out any excess polish.

Why It Works:

Nail polish can act as a temporary filler for deeper scratches, protecting the underlying paint from further damage. Clear polish is best for small, shallow scratches, while color-matching polish can help blend the scratch with the rest of the paintwork.

What You'll Need:

Touch-up paint (matching your car’s color)
Clear coat
Fine sandpaper (optional)
Microfiber cloth

Directions:

Clean the scratched area thoroughly and allow it to dry.
If the scratch is deep, lightly sand the area to smooth the edges of the scratch (optional).
Apply the touch-up paint carefully to the scratch, using a fine-tipped brush or the applicator provided.
Allow the paint to dry completely before applying a layer of clear coat to seal it.
Once the clear coat is dry, gently buff the area with a microfiber cloth to blend it with the surrounding paint.

Why It Works:

Touch-up kits are designed to restore your car's original appearance by filling in scratches with matching paint. They provide a more permanent solution for deeper scratches and help protect your car's paintwork from rust and further damage.