Guide 04 · Paint
Remove scratches and revive hazy clear coat
If your fingernail doesn't catch on the scratch, it's only in the clear coat and a polisher will remove it in an afternoon.
Easy 2–3 hours Great first project with a DA polisher
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Tools I used
| Tool | Why you need it | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Dual-action (DA) polisher | Safe for beginners, hard to burn paint | Check price → |
| Cutting compound | Levels light scratches | Check price → |
| Finishing polish | Brings back gloss after compounding | Check price → |
| Foam pad set (cutting + polishing) | One pad per product | Check price → |
| Clay bar kit | Removes grit so you don't grind it in | Check price → |
| Touch-up paint pen (paint code) | For scratches through the clear | Search on Amazon → |
| Microfibre towels | Wipe-off without new swirls | Check price → |
Shop the whole kit
6 tools, one click, straight into your Amazon cart.
Add all 6 to cart →6 tools, one click, straight into your Amazon cart.
Steps
- Do the fingernail test. Catches = touch-up first. Doesn't catch = polish it out.
- Wash and clay the panel so the surface is smooth.
- Tape off rubber trim and panel edges.
- Put 4 pea-sized drops of compound on the cutting pad. Work a 50 × 50 cm section at slow speed, then medium, in overlapping passes.
- Wipe and check under a bright light. Repeat once if needed.
- Switch to the polishing pad and finishing polish to bring the gloss back.
- Protect it with wax, sealant or ceramic coating (see Guide 10).
Pro tips
- Keep the pad flat and moving. Tilting it concentrates heat on one spot.
- Stay away from panel edges and body lines. The clear is thinnest there.
- Clean your pad with a brush or air every section, or it stops cutting.
Find a pro near you
When to call a pro
The clear coat is peeling or flaking (it needs a respray), scratches are down to primer or metal, or the damage covers a whole panel.
Rather not DIY it? Tell us where you are and local shops will send you a quote.