How to buff out scratches on a car

Keenan Thompson

June 22, 2024 at 8:30 AM·5 min read

No matter how hard we try to keep our cars' paint safe from scuffs and scratches, damage can still happen. Scratches can be caused by rock chips, debris, or bumping into an object causing paint transfer. If you have a small scratch that isn’t too deep, you can remove it yourself instead of spending money at a repair shop. All you’ll need are the right tools, proper instructions, and a bit of patience to buff out the scratch. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to buff out scratches on a car.

Tools you'll need before you start

Instructions for buffing out scratches on your car

Step 1: Wash and dry your car

Before you begin any repairs, ensure the entire vehicle, or at least the area you will be working on, has been thoroughly cleaned and dried. Take it to an auto or touchless wash or you can wash it yourself by hand. Then dry it completely with a clean microfiber towel.

Step 2: Survey the scratch

Look at the scratch closely and determine how deep it is. If it’s a shallow scratch then you can try to buff it out. If the scratch is too deep, you may need to apply touchup paint or get it repaired at a shop by a professional.

Step 3: Apply tape

Using tape to mark the area you want to work on is a very helpful way to ensure you are only working on the part that’s scratched that you want to buff out.

Step 4: Prep the surface

Now you have to prep the surface where the scratch is located. Ensure, once again, the area is clean and you have your buffer connected and ready to go.

Step 5: Apply compound to buffer

Grab your cutting pad and attach it to the buffer. Then apply the compound and rub it in. Add 3 additional drops of compound near the corners, similar to a triangle shape.

Step 6: Start buffing over the car scratch

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