elba123

I had my hatch open and backed out of the garage without looking at the rear view camera. The hatch scraped against the open garage door on the top. I heard a sound and immediately stopped and moved forward. By then, the damage had been done - see attached photos. From certain angles or from a distance, it does not show - for example in the 3rd photo. In fact, from a few feet away, it is not visible unless someone tells you what to look for and where.

Is there some DIY method to get rid of the scratches or is it a job for the detailing shop? I am willing to live with the scratches on the 'L' emblem as it is not as visible as the one on the paint.

jfelbab

From the photos and your description, it looks like much of that will polish out. Try some Meguiar's ScratchX. May take several passes to remove. As long as you can't catch your fingernail in the scratch, it should be safe to polish out. The one trouble spot will take some touch up paint.

LeoDLion

I agree that some of the scratches maybe buff out. Meguiar's ScratchX is a good one. I've use car polish (not wax)with good results. You have to be patient and rub it gently. Once you remove the scratches, put on wax.

felix168

It can probably be fixed DIY, however, it's really not expensive to have that fixed by a professional bodyshop. By the time you buy all the PROPER tools and materials for the job, it might end up costing you more.

sydtoosic

the badge even got scratched... i think those are catch your fingernail type scratches... you can polish the area, it will look better but the scratches will still be there.

UCSB

You could use Scratch X, but be care not to keep rubbing. If you go below the clear coat, it will look worst. Definitely replace the Logo, they are cheap. A good body shop could fix (to whatever degree is possible) it fast for cheap.

Capitone

As others have mentioned you may be pleasantly surprised at what a decent rubbing compound can do with that sort of scratch. I always keep a bottle of Meguirs Ultimate Compound on hand. It has saved my azz a few times already.

Good luck. Hope it turns into a "Phew!" moment soon.

Joel

elba123

Thanks all. Is there a time limit on how soon to get around to doing this? So far, I have been unable to attend to this because of work related travel and household chores.

Rx79394

Nope, no major rush... The scratches won't go anywhere.. They look very minor so a hand polish should work. That one spot will need a coat of touch-up paint though, that looks like it won't come out.