How to Repair Car Bumper Scratches
Nothing can spoil your day more than the discovery of new scratches on your bumper. From a parking lot collision to scraping along a hedge, the ugly blemishes can leave your ride looking beat up and forsaken. The good news? Some bumper scratches are easier repairs than you can imagine, and you often don't have to take the expense all the way up to the body shop. If you own a Mini Cooper in Peoria, for example, you’ll be glad to know the process is similar for most vehicles.
Learning how to repair bumper scratches accurately can potentially save you in the range of hundreds while ensuring your ride remains in tip-top shape. In the guide below, we're going to take you through the necessary procedures in evaluating the extent of scratches and the least expensive method in having your bumper restored to its original state. Remember, Arrowhead Imports is here if you need advice!
Determining the Extent of the Damage
Before you even get the repair tools in hand, take the time to accurately assess what you're working with. Try running your fingernail along the scratch - if it catches, you're in for a more serious gouge which penetrated the coat layer. Shallow scratches that don't catch the nail are generally only damage at the clear coat and are the easiest repairs.
See if the scratch went through the plastic bumper material underneath. White or gray through painted color indicates the damage goes deeper than the outside layers. Observe also the area close by for scuffing or cracks, which are often not noticeable.
Take photographs from multiple angles and capture the damage. You can get some idea regarding the repair progress and also refer to the photographs if you require opinions from experts in the future. Consider the impact the light has on the looks of the damage, since some damage becomes more evident and others less so with the angle and light change.
DIY vs Professional Help
Small scratches can commonly be repaired with in-the-home repair methods. If you want to repair scratches on a car bumper, small scratches in the majority of late-model cars can be adequately repaired with touch-up paint pens, and very small clear coat damage can be eradicated with polishing compounds. Both are commonly less than $30 in price and require minimal technical experience.
For scratches more than superficial, take into account your tolerance with more advanced repairs. You can't hurry sanding, priming, and multiple coats of paint, which require technique and patience. Doing them haphazardly often produces more obvious damage than the scratch. Consider the price of sandpaper, primer, paint, and clear coat in your estimate for DIY costs.
Professionals are worth the expense if scratches are deep, in very visible locations, or if your ride sports specialty finish paint which can't be easily matched. Body shops have exact matching paint along with state-of-the-art gear that blends perfectly. While more costly in the initial price, car bumper scratch repair performed by professionals typically sidesteps the costly do-overs.
Consider your vehicle's age and value when making this decision. Older cars with existing cosmetic issues might be perfect candidates for DIY experiments, while newer or luxury vehicles often benefit from professional attention to maintain their resale value.
Going Forward with Assurance
Bumper scratches repair doesn't have to be overwhelming when you approach it systematically. Start by thoroughly assessing the damage to understand exactly what you're working with. This evaluation determines whether you're facing a simple weekend project or a job that requires professional expertise.
Remember, practice is most effective when it comes to auto repairs. If one does not have experience with maintaining cars, getting started with less obvious areas or practice processes with extra material before handling obvious scratches. Most auto part stores offer consultation and can help in recommending the right products designed specifically for your kind of vehicle and type of damage.
Acting immediately avoids the scratches from deteriorating from the effects of the weather and everyday wear. Either with DIY techniques or with a professional repair job, acting fast keeps your ride in excellent condition and its value for the years ahead!