Scratch Removal
Also called scratch polishing or buffing
Scratches that have only cut into the clear lacquer can be machine polished out. Run a fingernail across the scratch: if it does not catch, polishing usually works. If it catches, the scratch has reached colour or primer and needs filling and painting rather than buffing. Polishing also removes swirl marks from poor washing and dust scratches, but it cannot bring back paint that has been cut all the way through.
What the job includes
- Assessing scratch depth by touch and paint thickness reading
- Washing and decontaminating the panel before any machine work
- Machine polishing with compound to level the lacquer around the scratch
- Finishing polish to restore gloss without leaving haze or swirls
- An honest statement of which marks will remain and why
Signs you need this
- Light scratches visible mainly in direct sunlight
- Circular swirl marks across the bonnet or boot
- Scuff marks transferred from another car or a gate
- Paint looking dull and flat rather than glossy
- Fine dust scratches from dry wiping
Not all of these have to be present, and one of them on its own can mean something else entirely. That is what the diagnosis is for.
How we do it
Test the depth
We run a fingernail along the scratch and measure paint thickness, because polishing removes lacquer and there is a limit.
Clean the panel
The area is washed and decontaminated so grit is not dragged across the paint by the polishing pad.
Compound and refine
A cutting compound levels the lacquer around the scratch, then a finishing polish restores depth and gloss.
Review the result together
We show you the result in daylight and point out anything still visible that would need painting rather than polishing.
How we work
The same on every job, which is why we can write it down.
Diagnosis before quote
We find the fault first. A price given over the phone for a noise nobody has heard is a guess.
The price is agreed first
You approve the work and the cost before a spanner is picked up. Extra work means another call.
Parts you can check
We tell you whether a part is genuine, OEM, aftermarket or used, and what each one costs.
Old parts returned
Ask and we will hand back whatever we replaced. It is the simplest proof that the job was done.
Book scratch removal
Fill this in and a person will call you back to confirm the time and the price. Only your name and one way to reach you are required.
Before you book
Questions we get asked
If your question is not here, ask it. We would rather answer honestly now than have you find out after booking.