Black '06 GS430 Small Thin Scratch Removal - Help!

[ehong33234]

Hi, just purchased a used 2006 GS430 (my first Lexo-Flexo) that is black and the vehicle has some hairline scratches that are about 6-10 inches long. They are not that noticeable but since I know they are there, my eyes look at them every time.

So, for those Lexus vets out there, does anyone know of a great way to fix these minute scratches? I've seen that infomercial with Billy Mays but read some reviews that said it doesn't work too well. I have some Meguiar's Scratch Removal stuff but I've used it before on my older car and it didn't do much (if anything).

Thanks in advance for your help!

[jfelbab]

Again, see this thread: http://www.clublexus.com/forums/auto...us-dealer.html

For the scratches, I'd suggest a product like Meguiar's ScratchX or their Ultimate Compound. These are both effective products but require some technique and passion if using them by hand.

Use a microfiber covered applicator and rub the product over the scratch(s) with some passion. Work a very small area at a time. They will be removed or diminished, depending on their depth. This can be a daunting task by hand.

You may wish to consider buying a DA polisher or have your car professionally detailed initially.

[ehong33234]

Great, thanks for the answer. The scratches are small enough where I will try to attempt by hand. My biggest fear is that I will ruin the clear coat by using solutions that are too harsh.

[jfelbab]

Originally Posted by ehong33234

Great, thanks for the answer. The scratches are small enough where I will try to attempt by hand. My biggest fear is that I will ruin the clear coat by using solutions that are too harsh.

Follow these guidelines and you will be safe.

You should understand that you are not removing the scratches. You are going to be removing paint. In essence, you are removing the surrounding paint to the level of the bottom of the scratch.

Use the least abrasive product that will accomplish the task. This means trying a product three to five times over the defect and see if it is removed before stepping up to a more abrasive product or applicator. You want to remove the least amount of paint in this process that achieves the result you want.

If you can catch your fingernail in a scratch it is likely too deep to be completely removed. You likely can make it less noticeable however.

Use safe materials. Pads should be new. You might start with a foam pad with a polish and if this doesn't yield results try using a terry or microfiber covered applicator with that polish.

Different polishes require different techniques. There are two types of polishes and compounds. Those that break down while using and those that don't. The latter contain super fine abrasives and deliver a great finish in little time but neither type should be worked until they dry. All polishes should be removed wet. ScratchX and Ultimate Compound are a type that uses super fine abrasives and don't break down with use.

When polishing scratches by hand you need to use a lot of passion. This doesn't mean a lot of pressure but a vigorous action with moderate pressure typically works best. Your last pass should be with lighter pressure.

If you start with a product like ScratchX you should be able to safely remove most light scratches. If this doesn't work after a few attempts move up to Ultimate Compound. Depending on how hard your paint is you may have to follow UC with ScratchX to finish off the repair. UC is pretty abrasive. Not so abrasive that you should be anxious about using it but abrasive enough that it may leave a slight dulling of the finish if you use the wrong pads, too much pressure or your clear coat is soft. ScratchX should remove this dullness if it occurs.

Take your time and work small areas.

You are right to be cautious about damaging your clear coat. ScratchX is safe enough to use a few times a year for several years if used as mentioned. UC is also safe for several applications over several years.

Check your progress in the sun but be sure to polish or compound your paint when it is cool to the touch and do it in the shade or in a garage. Hot paint will cause the polish to dry too fast.

You might want to take some pictures of the repair and share them here for others to learn from.

Good luck.