How to Fix a Keyed Car: A 7-step Guide to Repair Key Scratches
Ultra Clean Car Wash of Ossining, NY provides auto detailing services involve thorough cleaning, restoration, and protection of a vehicle’s exterior and interior surfaces. These services go beyond a regular car wash and focus on enhancing the appearance and condition of the vehicle, making it look almost new. You can visit our car wash center located at located at 199 S Highland Ave Ossining, NY or contact us today at 914-941-5564 to schedule an appointment!
Repairing key scratches on your car can be a DIY project, but keep in mind that deep or extensive scratches may require professional assistance. Here’s a 7-step guide to help you fix minor key scratches:
Materials you’ll need:
- Automotive touch-up paint (matched to your car’s color)
- Clear coat paint (if not included in the touch-up paint)
- Microfiber cloths
- Car wash soap
- Sandpaper (2000-3000 grit)
- Rubbing compound
- Polishing compound
- Wax
Step 1: Clean the scratched area Wash the scratched area and its surroundings with car wash soap and water. This ensures that you’re working on a clean surface and removes any debris or dirt that could interfere with the repair process.
Step 2: Assess the depth of the scratch Run your fingernail over the scratch. If your fingernail gets caught in the scratch, it might be too deep for a DIY repair. Superficial scratches, which do not penetrate the clear coat, are easier to fix.
Step 3: Sand the scratch (for superficial scratches only) For light scratches that haven’t penetrated the clear coat, you can sand the area to smooth out the scratch. Use wet sandpaper with 2000-3000 grit, and gently sand the scratch in a back-and-forth motion. Be careful not to sand too aggressively or you may damage the surrounding paint.
Step 4: Apply touch-up paint For scratches that have gone through the clear coat, apply a small amount of automotive touch-up paint that matches your car’s color. Use a fine brush or toothpick to carefully fill in the scratch. Allow the paint to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 5: Apply clear coat paint If your touch-up paint does not include a clear coat, apply a thin layer of automotive clear coat paint over the touched-up area. This helps protect the paint and provides a glossy finish. Follow the instructions on the clear coat product for drying time.
Step 6: Buff the repaired area Use a clean microfiber cloth and rubbing compound to buff the repaired area gently. The rubbing compound helps blend the new paint with the surrounding paint. Be patient and apply light pressure to avoid damaging the fresh paint.
Step 7: Polish and wax After buffing, apply polishing compound to the area to bring back the shine. Once you’re satisfied with the results, apply wax over the entire area to protect the paint and provide a uniform appearance.
It’s essential to note that while DIY repairs can be effective for minor scratches, deep or extensive damage may require professional assistance. If you’re unsure about the repair process or if the scratch is significant, consider seeking help from a professional auto body shop or detailing service to ensure the best results.
If you are searching for the best car wash and auto detailing center near me, then you have come to the right place! Ultra Clean Car Wash and Detailing center is located at 199 S Highland Ave in Ossining, NY. Contact us today at 914-941-5564 to schedule an appointment!
