5 Tips for Removing Nasty Scuffs From Your Vehicle

Swirl marks, scuffs, and headlight oxidation are headaches that no car owner wants to have—but they don’t have to cost you a fortune to fix. As long as the damage isn’t too extensive, you can repair it yourself without getting your insurance company involved. Here are some tips for removing various scuffs and scratches yourself, and why you should have good car insurance regardless:

Swirl Marks

Improper washing and drying techniques can cause tiny, circular scratches on the surface of your car’s paint. The good news is that you can remove swirl marks with a little bit of elbow grease or a buffer power tool. All you’ll need is a scratch/swirl removal product, a foam pad or machine buffer, and a soft microfiber cloth. Clean your car beforehand, as any dirt or grit will cause more damage. Work in small sections and be careful not to use too much pressure. Wipe clean with a soft microfiber cloth and repeat where necessary. Avoid swirl marks in the future by using the correct techniques and products when washing and drying your vehicle.

Headlight Scuffs and Oxidation

Yellowing, dirty, scratched, or cloudy headlights are all unsightly nuisances—not to mention a major safety hazard. Cloudy headlights reduce visibility at night and make it harder to see in the rain or snow. Fix these problems yourself and have your headlight lenses looking like new in no time. You can repair deep scratches in plastic headlights by wet sanding the area and lightly buffing. Afterward, follow up with a headlight restoration kit for maximum clarity.

A head light restoration kit is the best way to eliminate any haze, discoloration, or fogginess in your car’s headlight lenses in just a few simple steps. Make sure your headlights are cool and clear of any dirt or debris before you begin. Use the first wipe pad to clean the headlights and apply the clear coat. Dry your headlights thoroughly with a paper towel. Lastly, use the second wipe pad to apply a polish that will prevent future oxidation and protect your headlight lens from harmful UV rays.

Glass Scratches

Deep scratches in glass that catch your fingernail require complete replacement, as they will only spread over time. Depending on your car insurance company, that may be included in your insurance policy. You can fix minor scratches on your windshield or windows yourself, without a lot of elbow grease. Get a glass repair kit that includes a rubbing compound, which acts as a sealant that bonds the glass together. Clean the glass, then apply the paste-like rubbing compound into the scratch. Spray with water and rub gently. Let it dry according to the instructions, then wash and dry the glass. You may need to occasionally reapply.

Paint Scuffs

Few things are more frustrating than discovering paint scuffs on your vehicle, especially when they’re from another car’s bumper. As long as you can’t see the inner paint or metal of your vehicle, you can easily remove the scuff yourself with a little elbow grease. Wash and dry the area, then apply a non-abrasive paint cleaner with a clean microfiber pad. Next, use an adhesive remover that is safe for painted surfaces. After that dries, apply polish and wipe with a clean cloth for a smooth finish.

Professional Repair and Insurance

Deep scratches in your vehicle’s paint or glass may require professional repair or replacement, which can be expensive without a good car insurance policy. You’ll also want to have car insurance in the event of an accident or vandalism. Choosing the best car insurance is easier than ever with the ability to compare coverage options and get car insurance quotes online. Simply enter your zip code to compare the average rates of top insurance companies and find cheap car insurance with quality coverage.

Choosing the best car insurance means taking the time to compare comprehensive coverage policies in addition to bodily injury and collision coverage. Even though including optional coverage may increase your car insurance premium, there are ways to save. Things like a good driving record and current proof of enrollment at a four-year university can unlock discounts that lower your premium to a more affordable rate. Bundling your auto policy with renters or home insurance can also lead to substantial discounts.

You may be able to fix minor scuffs yourself with great results, but you should still have a good insurance policy. Read the fine print of what’s covered by your car insurance company—just in case that tiny crack in your windshield spreads despite your best efforts.