[Daily Knowledge] How to repair scratches or dents on a car body?
Car scratches or dents are common minor accidents in daily driving. The treatment method mainly depends on the severity of the damage , the location and the budget . The following are detailed repair options and processes:
1. Slight scratches on the surface (shallow scratches, no damage to the primer)
Simple way to handle it yourself:
- Clean the surface : Use clean water or car wash liquid to clean the scratched area.
- Scratch repair pen/repair wax : There are various repair pens and scratch waxes on the market, which are suitable for dealing with shallow scratches.
- Polishing agent : Use a fine cloth with a polishing agent to reduce or eliminate fine lines and minor scratches.
Notice:
- Only limited to the clear coat being damaged and base colour/metal not visible .
- Dark-colored cars are more prone to "scratch marks" and the treatment effect is limited.
2. Deep scratches (see primer or metal)
Professional painting/repair:
-
Go to a car detailing or paint shop :
- Filling and polishing : first grind the concave and convex surfaces flat.
- Touch-up paint and spray painting : touch-up primer, coloring and spray varnish.
- Polishing : restore gloss.
- Cost : Depends on the size, generally $300-$1,500 per piece (reference to Hong Kong market price).
- Time : A small area can be completed in 1-2 hours, while a large area or multiple locations require the vehicle to be left behind.
DIY Kit:
- There are touch-up pens and DIY repair kits on the market, but the color difference is obvious and they are only suitable for very small areas.
3. Car body dented (no scratches or minor paint damage)
Paintless Dent Repair (PDR)
- Suitable for dents without damaged paint (such as dents caused by doors or small stones).
- Professional technicians use tools to flatten the car body from the inside.
- Advantages : Keep original paint and lower cost.
- Cost : $300-$800/piece (depending on the size of the dent).
- Time : 30 minutes to 1 hour.
4. Severe damage (large-scale dents, paint peeling)
Traditional sheet metal + paint injection
-
Repair process :
- The sheet metal master is hammering out the recessed spots/welding.
- Sanding and filling.
- Spray primer, paint, and varnish.
- Polished finishing touches.
- Cost : $800-$3,000, depending on the extent of the damage and the type of car.
- Time : 1-3 days.
Replacement Parts
- If the doors, fenders, or bumpers are severely deformed, consider replacing them with new or aftermarket parts.
5. Insurance claims
- Comprehensive insurance/body insurance : If you have insurance, you can consider filing a claim if the repair costs are high.
- Excess : Check the terms of the insurance policy. The level of excess will affect whether it is worth claiming insurance.
6. Repair selection suggestions
- Small scratches, no exposed base color : you can DIY first.
- See primer, metal or rust : Have it professionally repaired as soon as possible to prevent further corrosion.
- Dents but no paint damage : PDR may be considered.
- Severe damage/extensive area : Find a professional body paint shop.
7. Daily protection tips
- Choose a safe and spacious parking space for parking.
- A transparent protective film (such as PPF) can be applied.
- Wax or coat the surface regularly to reduce scratches.
Summarize
Minor scratches can be DIYed, but deeper scratches or dents are recommended to be handled by professionals. If the damage is serious or affects the structural safety, professional repairs should be carried out as soon as possible.
