7 Tips for Treating Interior Scratches in Your Lexus

1. Treat Wood Trim as You Would Any Paint Surface

The wood trim in your Lexus is clear-coated, which means it's safe to use a fine to mild polishing product with a small Dremel to treat a scratched wooden area. It’s recommended to apply a coat of wax/sealant afterwards. 

2. Buy Trusted Products

When it comes to using cleaning/treating products for the interior of your Lexus, buy a trusted product that’s been recommended by ClubLexus.com forum members.  One such product is Meguiar’s PlastX Clear Plastic Cleaner and Polish, which is more useful for heavy duty jobs. A simple search on the forums will yield plenty of results for recommendations, but this is a go-to product for plastic surface scratches.

3. Use a Scratch Repair Kit

If you prefer convenience, scratch repair kits contain materials that work well together to diminish the scratches on affected interior surfaces. A Dremel polishing kit is recommended by Club Lexus forum members; simply use the small plastic brush at medium speed in combination with a rubbing compound. Just make sure you get a kit featuring quality materials and products.

4. Don't Use Scratch Remover on Painted Surfaces

If you use a scratch removal product on painted areas, the paint will fade. Most of these products are too abrasive for the finer surfaces that are not clear-coated, so the paint will be removed. Instead, use a product specifically formulated for plastic painted surfaces. 

5. Combat Scuff Marks the Right Way

While it may be tempting to just use a damp microfiber towel on scuff marks and call it a day, using a dedicated product will yield better results. Interior vinyl cleaners like 1Z Einszett will work on steering wheels, shift knobs, door panels and arm rests. Some scuff marks carry dirt with them, so a gentle vinyl cleaner will work to remove any grime that’s built up.

6. Invest in Microfiber Towels

If you don’t want to use a kit, which may come with microfiber towels or buffing pads, then investing in a bundle of microfiber towels is key for maintaining your Lexus, on the inside and out. You’ll want to use a microfiber towel in combination with any interior cleaning or scratch removal product due to its gentle composition. After all, what’s the point in repairing a damaged area if you’re going to end up causing more scratches?

7. Prevent Future Scratches

Club Lexus forum members recommend wrapping interior pieces in clear bra or vinyl to help prevent scratches from happening if they are a persistent issue. While they will never remain as flawless as they were when you first bought your Lexus, interior surfaces can certainly be protected.

For more information on maintenance and repairs, check out our DIY technical articles here in Club Lexus.