How To Cover Up Scratches And Protect Finish On Car

Are you wondering how to cover up scratches and protect finish on car? Fingernails, keys and items set on your car can damage the protective finish or worse yet, the paint itself. Since not all scratches are the same, determining the depth of the scratch in your car's paint job is the first step. Large and long scratches may require professional assistance.

You will need:

• cloth
• water
• soapy water
• scratch remover product or paint and primer
• sand paper (1500 or 2000 grit)
• body compound

1. Wash the affected areas. Use soapy water and cloths to remove all dust and dirt from the car before beginning to cover up scratches and protect the finish. Make sure to rinse and dry the car well after all dust and dirt have been removed.
2. Sand. Sand the area around the scratches lightly using sand paper (a sanding block can be used). This will make the depth of the scratch less deep and help cover up scratches and protect the finish.
3. Use body compound for deep scratches. Apply according to manufacturer's instructions. Allow the proper time to dry before continuing to cover up scratches and protect the finish on your car. 
4. Cover the scratches with scratch remover product. If the depth of the scratch is into the paint, you will need a colored scratch remover or primer and paint to apply over the metal. This may require mixing if you cannot locate a remover in your car's paint color. If the clear coat finish has been destroyed, you will need a clear colored scratch remover. Apply scratch remover in a circular motion using a cloth.
5. Cover the scratches with paint. Make sure the paint is correct before beginning. A dealership, door panel or automotive shop will reveal the paint color. Primer the car before applying the paint. Make sure to allow the primer to completely dry before painting to cover up the scratches and protect the finish on the car. Apply the paint and allow the car to sit overnight in a protected area to dry. Use clear coat when the paint is completely dried. Allow for enough time for the clear coat to dry.