How to Paint Over a Scratch on a Car

Does your car have a scratch and the cost of repair just below your deductible? Don't pay the body shop! You can do it yourself.

Instructions

1




Head to the auto parts store. Pick up the materials that you need and make sure that you choose a milder formulation of cleaning soap. Check with the clerk to make sure that your brush won't add to the damage.

2




Wash around and over the area of the crack with the mild washing soap. The purpose of this is to get rid of extra dirt or wax that has built up over time. Once you have the area clean, sand the edges down with sandpaper. If rust is present, make sure to get rid of all of it.

3

Isolate the scratch, so that you will not do any damage to the metal around the scratch. Use the masking tape to secure newspaper strips around the area of the scratch. Once you are done, you should only be able to see the scratch and a minimal area surrounding it. Take your putty knife (preferably a plastic one) and put on the body compound. Make sure that the compound has dried before moving on to the next step.

4

Now, sand again after the body compound has dried. Make sure the area is flat and has no debris. Spray primer over the scratch -- not too much. Let the primer dry completely. Once the area is ready, apply the touch-up paint. You can buy this at your dealership so give them your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and they can give you paint in the exact shade. Let the area dry, and you are ready to roll.