How to Fix Minor Car Scratches at Home – DIY Car Scratch Repair Guide

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Hand cleaning car with a yellow sponge, showcasing car detailing and washing process.

Not all scratches need a professional to fix. Some small marks can be repaired at home with the right tools and a little patience. In this guide, we’ll show you how to do your own car scratch repair at home and when it’s better to call an expert.


What Type of Scratches Can You Fix at Home?

Before starting, it’s important to know which scratches are DIY-friendly.

✅ Good for DIY:

  • Light surface scratches
  • Clear coat scuffs
  • Small marks from bushes or keys

❌ Not recommended for DIY:

  • Deep scratches you can feel with your nail
  • Scratches with paint missing or metal showing
  • Dents or cracked paint

What You’ll Need

  • Scratch repair kit or rubbing compound
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Car polish or wax
  • Touch-up paint (if needed)
  • Masking tape (optional)

You can find most of these at Supercheap Auto or Repco in Australia.


DIY Car Scratch Repair Steps

Step 1: Wash and Dry the Area
Clean the scratched area so no dirt or dust causes more damage during repair.

Step 2: Use a Rubbing Compound or Scratch Remover
Apply a small amount using a microfiber cloth. Rub in a circular motion until the scratch fades. Don’t overdo it.

Step 3: Polish and Wax
After the scratch fades, apply polish or wax to bring back the shine and protect the surface.

Step 4: Use Touch-Up Paint (for deeper marks)
If the scratch has gone through the paint, you can apply touch-up paint using a fine brush. Let it dry fully before applying clear coat or wax.


When to Call a Professional

DIY works only for minor issues. If your car has deep scratches, multiple marks, or if the area looks dull even after repair — it’s best to call a car scratch repair expert.

At Smart Auto Care, we fix scratches properly with color-matched paint and blending so it looks like nothing ever happened.


Final Thoughts

Fixing small scratches at home is possible and budget-friendly. But for deeper or more visible damage, don’t risk making it worse.

Need help with car scratch repair in Melbourne?
Smart Auto Care offers mobile service — we come to you and fix it professionally.

Contact us today for a free quote.

    About Smart Auto Care
    Smart Auto Care is Melbourne’s trusted mobile car scratch repair service.
    We come to your home or workplace and fix dents, scratches, and bumper damage – quickly and professionally.

    ✅ 100% mobile service
    ✅ High-quality finish
    ✅ Friendly, reliable technicians

    Ready to Erase That Damage?

    Get your free, no-obligation quote today and see how easy it is to make your car look great again.

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