Every car needs good maintenance, which also involves time to time scratch removal. If you own a vehicle then you may be familiar with the pain of getting your car scratched and how expensive it can get when you have to take it to a workshop for scratch removal. It’s an inevitable situation for those who reside in cities with endless possibilities of getting their car scratched. You can’t simply bear the expenses of professional removal each time. Getting a scratch remover could be the perfect solution to your car scratch problems.
In this article, we provide a lot of information related to car scratch removers. If you are new to car scratch removers, we suggest you read from the beginning to the end but if you already have some knowledge, feel free to use the below navigation menu. We also prepare a comparison table to give you the clear and informative comparison between each type of car scratch removers.
Comparison Table
Image | Features | Further information |
|---|---|---|
| - Brand: Carfidant - Weight: 9.6 ounces - Easy to use - Safe for all clear-coat - Contains cutting-edge polishing | |
| - Brand: MEGUIAR'S - Weight: 8.8 ounces - Ultra-fast cutting - Effective and safe - Offers optimal finish. | |
| - Brand: SHINE ARMOR - Weight: 5.6 ounces - A quality revolutionary formula - Safe, effective and easy to use | |
| - Brand: Carfidant - Weight: 9.6 ounces - A glossy finish - Easy and safe - No unnecessary odor | |
| - Brand: MEGUIAR'S - Weight: 1 pounds - Micro-abrasive technology - Safe for every type of applications | |
| - Brand: 3M - Weight: 4.5 ounces - Easy to use - Absolutely remove light and scratches | |
| - Brand: Turtle Wax - Weight: 12.5 ounces - Offer new-like appearance - Non-scratching ingredients | |
| - Brand: TriNova - Weight: 14.1 ounces - Includes a buffing pad - Safe on all paint finishes - Remove even the unsightly blemishes | |
| - Brand: Fenyx Products - Weight: 13.6 ounces - Removing both old and new light scratches - Safe for all types of paint finishes - Easy to use | |
| - Brand: MEGUIAR'S - Weight: 4.2 ounces - Includes a microfiber towel, a dual-mounted buffing pad. - Effective and safe |
Benefits of a Car Scratch Remover
Scratch removers come with many benefits.
Save Money
It will save a lot of money as it’s going to eliminate the expenses of taking your car to the workshop for scratch removal. Even the priciest scratch remover will cost you only a fraction of a one-time bill at the maintenance shop.
Maintain Paintwork
If you want your car to always look good as new, scratch remover is the best way to maintain its paintwork. The paintwork also protects its bodywork. If the paint is scratched, it won’t be able to provide the protection it’s intended for. So remember to wax your car regularly. Use a good car wax after using the scratch remover.
Retain Resale Value
In case you are planning to sell your vehicle, applying a scratch repair can quickly enhance its look and initially improve its value.
Factors to Consider While Buying a Car Scratch Remover
There are hundreds of car scratch remover manufacturers, and different brands offer different products. You have countless options to choose from, somewhat making it challenging to pick the right one. To help you with your purchase we have created a complete buying guide for scratch removers along with brief reviews of some of the best car scratch repair products available at present.
Types of Car Scratch Removers
Generally, there are three types of car scratch removers and you can pick the type which is most convenient for you.
- Bottled Compounds
There are two types of compounds:
- Scratch Removal Compounds
Scratch removal compounds are less abrasive and contain polish in them. If you use this compound you don’t have to use additional polish for the finishing. Scratch removal compounds are usually used in fixing small spots that need repair.
- Rubbing compounds
These are more abrasive and application of almost all rubbing compounds requires polishing later. Rubbing compounds are generally used all over the vehicle to redeem dull paint.
- Cloth Scratch Removers
These are made of formulated fabrics. They don’t need to be soaked in water or any compound before use. After washing your vehicle, wipe the cloth remover over the scratch for multiple times.
- Paint Pens
Paint pens can also be considered a type of remover. However, pens mostly add color than remove scratches. Pens are available in various colors. Paint pens are usually recommended for the scratches in which the base metal of the car is exposed, to prevent further damage or rust.
Scratch Coverage
Some car scratch removers are formulated only to repair light surface scratches, while some car paint scratch removers can work even on deeper scratches. You must first be sure which type of scratch are you dealing with.
Polish
The polish is a very important compound as the shine of paintwork can be restored only after polish is applied. You can either purchase the polish separately or buy a scratch remover that has a polish compound already infused in it. With the pre-mixed compound, you won’t have to spend time and money on polish.
Level of Abrasiveness
Car scratch removers can be categorized by the number of abrasive components they contain. Some brands may even provide a scale on their product to show its abrasiveness. You may want to check it before buying any remover.
Effectiveness
The most important thing you should consider is the effectiveness of the remover. You need to be sure that the remover you buy can perform its best when it comes to removing scratches on your car. A few products may claim to be best but turn out to be a disappointment.
Versatility
Some scratch removers are made solely for one color. For example, people may prefer buying scratch removers that are formulated only for black cars. Other removers are suitable for all types of car colors. You can choose according to your preference.
Scratch Removal Kit or Single Product
Many brands supply complete kits for car scratch removal. Kits are a good option for new car owners and beginners. It’s also an inexpensive option. Depending on the manufactures, a scratch removal kit may include the following products:
- Sanding blocks
- Rubbing compound
- Sandpaper
- Polish
- Microfiber pads
- Cloths and other accessories
For those who already have the other accessories like polish, pads, and abrasives can only purchase the scratch remover compound individually.
Safety
The safety is certainly important while dealing with these type of compounds. You should be familiar with all the components present in the product. We would advise you to ensure if it’s safe for you and the car. Some products may contain strong chemicals that could cause damage if too much is used at one time. Look for warnings or disclaimers on the bottle to learn more about the components you are going to deal with.
Ease of Use
Ease of use is another attribute that you should focus on, like how easy it’s to apply the remover or the number of times you have to buffer the remover on the scratch to erase it completely. Also for convenience, the product must have a properly documented user’s guide.
Application Type
Scratch removers can either be applied by a buffing machine or your hands. Generally, most compounds work more adequately when applied with a machine, as it can apply the compound more evenly over the scratched surface. However, the best car paint scratch repair products shouldn’t need any machine to get optimal outcomes.
Price
Price plays a crucial role. Not all costly products are the best. Some may have high rates but will be unable to provide a worthy execution. So make sure the remover that you purchase is a value for the money. Analyze all the good brands and compare what they can offer.
Top 10 Best Car Scratch Removers
1. Carfidant Ultimate Car Scratch and Swirl Remover
Designed to remove light scratches, swirls, and other small blemishes, the Carfidant scratch remover is an ultimate choice for those who are looking for a less abrasive car scratch remover. This versatile scratch remover comes with a patented formula that is safe for all types of paint finishes.
Features and Benefits
- Removes light scratches and swirls easily. Safe and easy to apply by hand or orbital. A buffer pad is included for user convenience.
- Safe to use on any clear-coat, and single-stage or multi-stage paint.
- Contains cutting-edge polishing compound that restores gloss and shine of the paint in no time.
- Premium chemicals are used in the remover for more effective results.
- No unnecessary dyes or pungent odor.
2. Meguiar’s Mirror Glaze Compound
The M10508 is one of the most abrasive scratch removal compounds available right now. Meguiar’s is a leading supplier of car care products and when it comes to scratch removals, you can completely rely on them. Featuring ultra-fast cutting and super-micro abrasive technology, this compound offers professional-level outcomes.
Features and Benefits
- Great compound for removing defects, scratches, acid rain spots, and severe swirls or holograms.
- Ultra-fast cutting enables easy removal of 1200 grit or finer sanding marks.
- Unbeatable super micro-abrasive technology offers optimal finish.
- Effective and safe on all polished paint finishes, including clear coats.
- Formulated for use by dual action polisher or rotary buffer and hand. It’s also body-shop safe.
3. SHINE ARMOR Scratch Repair
You can restore your car’s original scratch-free shine with the Shine Armor scratch repair. It not only removes scratches or swirls but also eliminates severe oxidation. It’s a high-end detail grade product that is safe, quick and easy to apply in any car.
Features and Benefits
- Removes oxidation, swirls, and scratches without causing any damage to the paint.
- A pure quality revolutionary formula that doesn’t contain fillers or waxes.
- Restores the car’s original shine in just one use.
- Safe, effective and easy to use. It can be safely applied by hands.
4. Carfidant Black Car Scratch Repair
If you have a black or dark color car then the Carfidant black scratch remover is the best option for you. Unlike light color vehicles the clear-coat, base-coat, and primers of most dark cars come in different shades. This scratch remover has been specifically formulated for such conditions.
Features and Benefits
- Specifically formulated for black or dark color cars.
- Removes light swirls and scratches easily.
- Patented formula is safe for all types of polish finishes.
- It contains polish to provide a glossy finish.
- Easy and safe to apply by hands or orbital. It includes a buffer pad.
- No unnecessary odor and dyes.
5. Meguiar’s Ultimate Compound
For removing below the surface car paint damages from light to moderate oxidation, water spots, scratches, and stains, Meguiar’s Ultimate Compound is the absolute paint cleaner. It delivers results that outshine the performance of both traditional rubbing and polishing compounds.
Features and Benefits
- Micro-abrasive technology cuts quickly for permanent defect removal, restoring color and clarity. It won’t haze or mar.
- Cuts as fast as harsh traditional compounds. It leaves no scratching or swirling.
- Safe to be used by hands, rotary buffer or dual action polisher.
- The clear-coat safe formula reduces the time and effort to revive abused or overlooked paint finishes.
- Effective and safe on single stage paints and clear-coat.
6. 3M Scratch Removal System
This is a complete scratch removal kit that contains all the necessary accessories, from abrasives to polishing compounds. If you are interested in getting a decent and affordable scratch removal system then this is the ultimate kit for you. The 3M Scratch Removal System removes minor scuffs, scratches and other slight defects by sanding, compounding and polishing the clear-coat layer of your car paint.
Features and Benefits
- Contains one 3000-grit abrasive square, one disc pad holder, one black polishing pad, one purple compounding pad, one 3M rubbing compound, one 3M scratch remover. You’ll need a household drill to use with the kit.
- Guaranteed to remove light scratches and scuffs.
- Easy to use the three-tiered repair system.
7. Turtle Wax Scratch Remover and Polishing Compound
The Turtle Wax T-241 two-in-one versatile compound is the most affordable scratch removal compound available at present. It’s formulated to be used both as a polishing compound and scratch remover. With precision polishing agents it’s capable of removing light scratches, fades and oxidation to restore shine.
Features and Benefits
- Heavy-duty compound that quickly cleans dull, slightly oxidized finishes. It can easily penetrate through the oxidized area to remove blemishes, scratches and stubborn stains.
- Restores faded finishes to give a new-like appearance.
- It contains non-scratching ingredients that are safe for all types of car finishes, painted metal, and chrome.
- Easy to use compound.
8. TriNova Swirl and Scratch Remover – Best Abrasive
TriNova scratch and swirl remover is a premium abrasive compound. It’s an advanced formula designed to restore and even out your car’s surface paint by eliminating even the slightest blemishes.
Features and Benefits
- Abrasive but safe compound with pre-mixed polishing. It also includes a buffing pad.
- Removes light scratches, swirls, and blemishes, restoring the original shine. It can remove even the unsightly blemishes.
- It can be buffed by hand or machine. High-end tools are not mandatory.
- Safe on all paint finishes.
9. Fenyx Products Scratch Remover
Specifically formulated for removing years of wear and scratches, the Fenyx Products scratch remover won’t disappoint you. Light scratches don’t stand a chance with this remover. It can restore your car to its original form so that you can be proud of your ride. The Fenyx Products scratch remover can be a perfect alternative for your scratch repair polishing wax.
Features and Benefits
- Easily restores your car paint finishing by removing both old and new light scratches, blemishes, and swirls, including the unsightly ones.
- Safe for all types of paint finishes.
- It can be applied by hand or buffing machine.
10. MEGUIAR’S Quick Scratch Eraser Kit
You can now say goodbye to the isolated paint problems on your car with this amazing scratch eraser kit by Meguiar’s. This inclusive eraser kit provides you with all the necessary accessories to quickly remove light paint imperfections with minimal effort.
Features and Benefits
- Removes fine scratches and blemishes in no time, with very little effort.
- Kit includes a microfiber towel, a bottled paint cleaner and a dual-mounted buffing pad that can be mounted on any household drill.
- Effective and safe on all clear-coats and glossy paints.
How to Use a Car Scratch Remover
If you are going to use a car scratch remover for the first time then you should know the step by step guidelines for removing a scratch from your car. You can follow the guidelines given below:
Step 1: Determine the Type of Scratch
The exterior of a car has three layers, which include clear-coat, base-coat, primer, and metal panel. Scratch removers will work only if the scratches are on the clear-coat or the base-coat. If the scratches are beyond these two layers then you’ll need professional help.
To determine if the scratch is light or deep, run your fingernail lightly on the scratch, if it feels smooth then the scratch is light. However, if your fingernail catches on the scratch, it’s mild deep. If you can visually see deep white patches or the metal then your car will need professional attention.
Step 2: Clean
Next, you must clean the surface using soap and water. After cleaning, the scratches will be more visible to you.
For Light Surface scratch
Step 3: Apply Scratch Remover
You won’t have to do much for light scratches. After cleaning the surface, simply apply some scratch remover on a microfiber pad or a clean hand towel and rub the surface with it until all the scratches disappear.
Most scratch removers are pre-mixed compounds that include both abrasives and polish, so when you rub the compound on the scratched surfaces, it not only removes the scratch but also provides a polish finish.
For Deep Surface Scratch
Step 3: Sanding
Sanding is necessary if you are dealing with deep scratches. You can use a sandpaper, sanding block or a rubbing compound. Apply only light pressure while standing the area, and continue to do so until the scratches disappear or the surface appears dull.
Step 4: Apply Repair Compound
After the sanding is done, apply a repair compound on a buffing pad or microfiber pad and rub it on the affected area with moderate force. You may refer to the instructions provide on the product.
Step 5: Polishing
Polish is important if you wish to restore the gloss on the car paint. Apply the polish after using the repair compound.
Step 6: Waxing
The last and final step is waxing. If your product lacks wax in it then you must apply the wax separately. Although it’s optional, waxing must is done so that the polish can retain its gloss for a long time.
Important Maintenance Tips
- Always test the new scratch remover before applying it on the car surface. You can test it on a painted piece of bodywork or rear bumper pieces of the car. Make sure the pieces are made of metal.
- You need not worry about burnt paint if you are rubbing the remover with your hand. However, if you are using a buffing machine then make sure the buffing speed is decent.
- Car wash can sometimes cause damage to the paint of your car. Even touch-free car wash can leave clear-coat scratches or swirl marks on your vehicle. So we would suggest you wash your car manually instead of a car wash.
FAQs about Car Scratch Removers
Q: How does a car scratch remover work?
A: The scratch remover, when combined with heat generated by buffing, melts the clear-coat at a manageable ratio to fill the defects.
Q:What is the best scratch remover for black cars?
A: In most black cars, the primer color is different from the clear-coat or base-coat. To avoid regretful consequences it’s best to use a restorative black scratch remover, followed by waxing.
Q:Can scratch remover work effectively on all types of scratches?
A: No, scratch removers are only useful in removing light or mild surface scratches. If the metal layer is exposed, then it’s beyond the limits of a scratch remover.
Q:Is buffing machine more effective than hand buffing?
A: Yes, because the machine can create more heat to melt the clear-coat. Doing it with the hand may not generate an adequate amount of heat needed for fusion.
Conclusion
After going through our buying guide and reviews, we hope you have already picked your favorite scratch remover by now. When it comes to car scratch removers, choosing the right product is important because if you get a wrong one then it won’t work at all, and the worst part is that it can cause more damage to the paint. Every product in our list is specifically formulated for a particular task, so you can buy the one that seems best for the scratch on your car.
