Repair scratches to keep it looking brand new.
All cars pick up a scratch at some point. Repairing small scratches isn't complicated, but it takes time to do it right. Car manufacturers produce tubes and spray cans of paint matching all of their car colors, so matching the car's color shouldn't be a problem.
Instructions
1. Buy a small spray can or tube of touch-up paint from the car's manufacturer. Test the paint on a piece paper, and compare the color to make sure it matches. The colors are usually perfect, but if the paint doesn't match, go back to the manufacturer. Let the manufacturer help you find a color that matches better.
2. Wash and dry the car. If the scratch doesn't go all the way to the colored paint layer, you can skip this step.
3. Cover the windows and metal near the scratch with newspaper, and tape it in place with masking tape. Use spray paint if you have a very shallow scratch. If you are using spray paint, spray the colored paint across the damaged area. Keep the can at least 12 inches away from the car. Apply one thin layer and let it dry 30 minutes. Add a second layer and let it dry for an hour. Use the tube of paint if you have a deeper scratch; apply a thin coat and wipe off any excess with a paper towel. Wiping up the excess paint forces the paint down into the scratched area. Wiping immediately before the paint dries at all keeps any rough areas from developing on the areas surrounding the scratch. Do not let excess paint sit on the undamaged paint. Let it dry for an hour and apply a second coat if needed. Let it dry for two hours this time. You get a thicker coating of paint with the tube, and it's more controlled. The tube paint fills in the grove without the need for sanding. The finished surface looks neat and smooth.
4. Use fine grit wet/dry sand paper on the dried touch up paint if you end up with a rough area. Wet the sand paper, and sand off any roughness. Wipe it with a damp cloth, and let it dry. Don't sand off all of the touch up paint. If you sand off too much paint, touch it up again, and repeat the process before applying the top coat.
5. Tap your finger against the colored paint coating to make sure it is completely dry. Let it dry for another hour if necessary.
6. Spray a coat of clear topcoat across the damaged area. Keep the can at least 12 inches away from the car. Let it dry for 30 minutes. Add a second coat of clear topcoat and let it dry for an hour. The scratch is repaired. Wax the car to complete the job.
Tags: colored paint, across damaged, across damaged area, area Keep, area Keep least, away from
