How to Repair a DEEP SCRATCH in Car Paint (DIY)

Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Repair a Deep Scratch in Car Paint

Materials Needed:

• Isopropyl alcohol or water
• Dish soap
• Microfiber cloths
• 2000, 3000, and 5000 grit sandpaper
• Polish and polishing pad
• Automotive paint pen with base coat and clear coat
• Tape
• Sanding block
• Clear coat
• Buffing pad
• Microfiber towel

Step 1: Clean the Panel

1. Mix dish soap with warm water to create a soapy solution.
2. Clean the entire panel to remove dirt, oils, and waxes using the soapy water and a microfiber cloth.

Step 2: Prep the Deep Scratch

1. Remove any rust from the scratch using 400 grit sandpaper or the abrasive tip of the paint pen.
2. Sand the edges of the scratch to make them smooth and rounded to help blend the touch-up paint later.
3. Feather out the sanding onto the base coat and clear coat next to the scratch using 800 or 1000 grit sandpaper.

Step 3: Apply Touch-Up Paint

1. Clean the scratch with isopropyl alcohol to ensure a clean surface for the paint to adhere to.
2. Tape off the scratch about 1-2 millimeters from the edge to contain the paint.
3. Apply thin layers of touch-up paint, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next.
4. Build up the paint higher than the surrounding paint to allow for sanding later.

Step 4: Sand and Blend the Paint

1. Once the paint is dry, sand down the touch-up paint using 800 grit sandpaper wrapped around a small, flat surface.
2. Sand until the touch-up paint is level with the surrounding paintwork.
3. Wet sand with 1500 and 2000 grit sandpaper to further blend the touch-up paint.
4. Polish the panel with a buffing pad and polish to achieve a high gloss shine.

Step 5: Apply Clear Coat

1. Wipe down the panel to remove sanding residue.
2. Apply thin layers of clear coat over the touch-up paint, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next.
3. Wet sand the clear coat with 3000 and 5000 grit sandpaper to level it with the surrounding clear coat.
4. Polish the panel to achieve a glossy finish.

Step 6: Final Touches

1. Buff off the polish with a fresh microfiber towel to reveal a shiny panel.
2. Allow the repair to fully cure for up to 30 days before applying wax or ceramic coating for added protection.

By following these steps, you can effectively repair a deep scratch in your car's paint using a simple touch-up pen and achieve professional-looking results similar to those demonstrated in the video by ChrisFix.