polish scratches out of car Page 9

First, do the fingernail test: if your nail catches, it’s through the clear coat and polishing won’t fully fix it—think touch-up or paint.

If it’s only in the clear, wash, clay, and mask trims, then use a mild cutting compound with a foam pad (dual-action polisher is best) and work a small area at a time.

Keep the panel cool, wipe and inspect often, and step up the cut only if needed; finish with a finer polish and seal with wax or a ceramic topper.

Edges and sharp creases are easy to burn through, so be gentle there, hero.

See primer or metal, or the scratch still laughs at you after a couple of passes? That’s bodyshop or a careful touch-up, not more elbow grease.