Immediately I heard the dreaded sound of another car brushing my bonnet, I knew it had happened—another scratch! You see, I have concluded that it is not possible to avoid minor scratches, dents, and dings in a country like Nigeria with bustling cities and always crowded parking spaces.
Before now, I would have rushed to my mechanic to help me fix the scratches that occurred as the other vehicle brushed my bonnet, but since I heard that it is easy to do, I learned how to do it myself and truthfully, it is easy to do.
Through this article, I want to show you some practical steps you can take to fix your car paint, and one of the beautiful things here is that you won’t have to break the bank to get what you want. If you call this article a Nigerian driver’s guide, you are very correct.
Read through with your undivided attention as we continue.
Why Should I Fix Car Scratches?
As funny as this question is, people still ask it because they do not understand why they should spend their time, energy, and money fixing car paint scratches. Well, here are some of the reasons you should do that.
1. Prevention of Rust
Yes, you heard me well. Minor scratches if not attended to can lead to rusty patches due to the country’s humid weather. The rain in some cities alone can accelerate the rusting process, no jokes! Most times, the exposed metal as a result of the scratch can lead to long-term damage other than rust.
2. Resale Value
If you want to buy a vehicle, and it has visible scratches and damages all over the body, won’t you have a change of mind? Okay, let’s assume you did not, you will reduce your purchasing amount. All I am trying to say is that appearance matters.
A well-maintained car paint boosts the value of your car if you wish to sell it someday.
3. Presentation
A car that is free of scratches and dents sends a message of professionalism. Any business owner or business executive attending meetings with a low-maintained car leaves a bad impression about himself. There is no greater thing than pulling up with a well-polished and maintained vehicle.
Essential Tools for DIY Paint Scratch Repair
These are the necessary tools you have to acquire when you want to engage in paint scratch repair. They can be obtained from car accessory stores or even local markets.
· Scratch Removal Kit: The kit contains things like scratch remover, applicator pads, polishing compound, etc.
· Touch-Up Paint: Of course, you will need a touch-up paint that matches the color of your car. Fidel Associates Limited sells a variety of KAPCI paints that are suitable for the Nigerian weather.
· Microfiber Clothes: These are used for cleaning and buffing.
· Fine-Grit Sandpaper: This is usually used to smoothen the surface before applying paint in cases where the scratches are deep.
· Masking Tape: Masking tape is used to protect areas around the scratch to avoid paint touching them in the process.
· Clear Coat Spray: This one provides an additional layer over the paint for protection and a lasting finish.
Step-by-step DIY Guide to Fix Minor Car Paint Scratches
These are the procedures you should take during DIY paint scratch fixing.
1. Observe the Type of Scratch
This is the first step you have to take. Scratches differ, and by so, you will have to identify the one you are trying to fix. While some scratches may be surface-level, others may be so deep that the metal underneath is visible. Below is how to identify the scratch type.
· Surface Scratch: This is the scratch that happens to the clear coat. It is mild and usually feels smooth to the touch.
· Paint Scratch: This one goes beyond the clear coat into the paint layer. It is usually rough when touched.
· Deep Scratch: This type of scratch exposes the metal. It is the most severe kind of scratch and would need a professional to handle it if you are not very good with DIY.
2. Clean the Area
Using a mild detergent or car soap preferably, clean the affected area. Ensure that all dirt, dust, and mud are removed. After cleaning, dry the area thoroughly as this will help the repair process go smoothly.
3. Remove Surface Scratches with a Scratch Removal Kit
You do not need more than a scratch removal kit to deal with a light scratch. All you have to do is to apply the scratch removal using a clean microfiber cloth in a circular motion for about 30 seconds and clean out the residue.
If the scratches are still there after the first application, you repeat the process.
4. Sanding for Deeper Scratches
Unlike light scratches, fine-grit sandpaper is best for deeper scratches. I already explained what deeper scratches are when I was showing you the different types of scratches. With this sandpaper, you will gently sand the scratch until the edges feel smooth.
Then you wipe the area with a microfiber cloth to become clean and rid of particles.
5. Applying Touch-Up Paint
After the affected area has been thoroughly cleaned and smoothened, the next is to apply a touch-up paint. Below are the steps you can take to do that;
· Shake the paint well before using a small brush to apply it over the scratch. You can also use an applicator. Just make sure you apply a thin layer.
· Allow the paint to dry for about 20 to 30 minutes. Please keep an eye on it.
· Add another layer of paint if the first didn’t do the work perfectly and allow it to dry too.
To get an excellent result, I would advise you to use KAPCI paints known for their high quality, distributed by Fidel Associates Limited.
6. Apply a Clear Coat for Protection
If your touch-up paint is dry, apply a clear coat on it. The importance of this cannot be over-emphasized. Spray the cleat coat evenly until the affected area is covered. Then allow it to dry and repeat the process if the first one didn’t give what you want.
7. Polish and Buff the Area
This is the last step you will take. After you’ve applied the clear coat and given it time to dry, use a polishing compound to buff in a circular motion until the glossy finish appears. Wipe off any excesses with a clean microfiber cloth.
At this point, the scratch on your car should not be visible again if not completely gone.
Additional Tips for Nigerian Drivers
Here are some extra tips I want to leave with you as a Nigerian car owner.
· Park Smartly. Always find a spot with enough spot to park especially in busy places like the market. This will reduce the chances of having a scratch on your car.
· From time to time, polish or wax your car paint. The regular maintenance you give to it goes a long way in preserving it.
· Invest in high-quality paint products. I will keep shouting this till you see how good KAPCI products distributed by Fidel Associates Limited are. Get paint products that can withstand Nigerian weather conditions.
· In case of deeper scratches, go for a professional touch. DIY is best for minor or surface scratches. Allow the professional to handle the severe ones.
Conclusion
I’ve taken you on a walk of ways you can handle paint scratches as a Nigerian driver or car owner. Following the tips I gave you, your car will not only look appealing but also be the talk of the town.
Remember that above all things, using a reliable and high-quality paint product is the game changer. Contact Fidel Associates today for all your paint needs.
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