Guide to the Types Of Car Scratches

A complete guide to the types of car scratches

So you scratched your car. It's a terrible feeling, we know — not only are you probably mad that it happened, but now you also have to figure out if and when you'll get the scratch fixed. (Spoiler alert: you should get it fixed soon to avoid further paint damage and rusting.) Our Orlando auto body repair experts are here to help! We put together a guide to the types of car scratches so you can decide how you want to handle the damage to your car.

What are the different types of car scratches?

When it comes to the types of car scratches, there are five main types. Our Orlando Collision Center techs are breaking each of them down for you so you know what course of action to take for auto repairs.

Surface-level scratches

These types of car scratches are probably the best ones to have, if there is such a thing. They're usually from accidental contact with things like branches and other small objects. They're not deep, but they do show up on your car paint and ruin your finish. Luckily, they're not too tough to get rid of! You can try a scratch remover and a microfiber cloth to get rid of them, but your best bet is to leave it to the experts. Let our Orlando Toyota Collision Center take a look at your vehicle to see what they can do.

Clear coat scratches

These types of car scratches are a little bit more serious — they typically happen because of fender benders, rogue shopping carts, and other small but damaging objects. Your clear coat protects your car's paint from damage and fading, so when the scratch goes into your clear coat, it's tougher to buff out. These scratches are also known as scuffs. You definitely want to bring your ride to Toyota of Orlando for these scratches. Our expert techs will use special tools, polishes, and techniques to buff the scratch out and ensure your paint stays in the best condition possible.

Deep scratches

Deep scratches are the types of scratches that go through the clear coat and damage your actual paint and even the primer. You may even see bare metal from deep scratches. They usually occur because of accidents and collisions. You definitely need a professional to fix this type of paint damage on your car. Note — we do not recommend using paint pens to fix scratches, especially deep scratches. The finish will be subpar and the damage will still be noticeable. Contact Toyota of Orlando — bare metal can rust and cost you even more in repairs.

Vandalism scratches

Vandalism damage is no joke. Someone keying your car can result in deep scratches that are difficult to get rid of. Professional expertise is needed to fix these types of car scratches — they're definitely not something you can take care of at home.

Paint transfers

Paint transfers happen when you get into an accident with another car. When you collide, paint from the other car gets rubbed onto your vehicle. Don't panic; these aren't TOO tough to get rid of. However, our Orlando auto body repair techs will have to use special compounds to remove the transferred paint AND ensure that your car's paint stays in good shape. Schedule your appointment!

How much does car scratch and car scuff repair cost?

So how much will it cost you to fix scratches and scuffs on your car? There's not a standard answer; it truly is situational. A typical car scuff repair cost can range anywhere from $150-500 depending on the size and severity. Deep scratches can cost even more, while surface-level scratches may cost less. Your best bet is to bring your car to Toyota of Orlando's Collision Center and let our experts take a look. They'll give you an estimate, help walk you through insurance, assist you in getting a rental car if you need one, and get your car looking like new again as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Schedule repairs for all types of car scratches at Toyota of Orlando

Ready to handle that annoying and unsightly scratch? Contact us today at 407-298-4500.