How to Fix a Dent in a Car and How to Fix Scratches on a Car

Mechanic Examining Scratch

Whether you are preparing your current vehicle to sell near Mesa or have noticed some imperfections on a used car you recently purchased, it’s important to know how to fix a dent in a car and how to fix scratches on a car. Learn more with Cactus Jack's Auto!


DIY: Fix a Dent in a Car

Not all dents are created equal. When it comes to how to fix a small dent in a car, you can do so yourself at home with the following methods.

  • Use a plunger. It can be your bathroom plunger or a specific car dent plunger. Either way, using a plunger may pop the dent out and level the exterior surface of your car.
  • Knock the opposite side of the dent: With either a hammer or mallet, you can knock the dent out on the opposite side of it. Take care to protect the side you’re hammering to avoid further damage.
  • Employ a dent puller. This method is for more experienced DIYers in the Surprise area, but if you have the confidence, what you’ll need to do is drill a hole in the dent, lace the dent puller wire through the hole, and pull the dent back to surface level. Finish up by filling the hole, sanding it down, and applying paint.

DIY: Fix Scratches on Car

Minor scratches can also be handled at home. Here are a few tools that can be used to fix scratches on a car, and make sure to wash your car before trying any of these suggestions.

  • Candle Wax: Use candle wax as a temporary solution by gently rubbing the wax over the area to seal the scratch.
  • Super Glue: Like candle wax, super glue acts to temporarily seal the scratch. It also blends in with the vehicle, reducing the visibility of the scratch.
  • Paint Polish or Rubbing Compound: Try a light polish with a less abrasive foam pad, and work your way up to higher-grit polishes or compounds if scratches remain.
  • Wet Sandpaper: Resort to wet sandpaper only if polishes and compounds do not fix scratches on a car. Clean the scratched area, and then rub over it with 2000-grit wet sandpaper. When the scratch has nearly disappeared, apply a rubbing compound, followed by finer and finer polishes. Finish the job by adding wax or paint sealant for protection. 
  • Touch-Up Paint: Deeper scratches can be hidden by touch-up paint.

Rely on Cactus Jack's Auto for More DIY Advice

Cactus Jack's Auto is here to answer all of your DIY questions when it comes to taking care of your vehicle in the Glendale area. Get in touch with the team at your nearest location for more advice, or peruse our car maintenance tips for more guidance.

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