The simple field test: run a fingernail lightly across the scratch. If it catches, the damage has gone past the clear coat and polishing cannot remove it. If it does not catch, there is a good chance it will disappear.
Scratch types and outcomes
- Clear coat scuffs and light marring — usually removed completely
- Bush and branch scratches from tight driveways and parking structures — often removed or dramatically reduced
- Scratches that catch a fingernail — improved in appearance only
- Scratches showing white, primer or bare metal — outside detailing; needs paint repair
- Transfer marks from another vehicle or a pole — often mostly removable, since the material sits on top of the clear coat
Parking lot reality in Sacramento
Tight structure parking downtown, narrow apartment stalls in Midtown, and shopping center lots in Arden-Arcade produce a steady stream of door dings, cart scuffs and transfer marks. Transfer marks in particular look far worse than they are — a lot of what appears to be a deep gouge is paint or rubber sitting on your clear coat, and it polishes off.
Our approach
We inspect and photograph the damage, tell you what category it falls into, and give an expected outcome before doing anything. Where a scratch is too deep to remove safely, we say so and recommend a body shop rather than sanding into thin clear coat and creating a bigger problem.
Frequently asked questions
Can you fix a keyed car?
Usually not through detailing. Keying typically goes through the clear coat and into the color, which requires refinishing.
What about scratches on plastic bumpers?
Painted bumpers polish similarly to metal panels. Textured unpainted plastic is different and often responds better to a trim restorer.
Will you know before starting?
Yes. We assess and tell you the realistic outcome before you commit to the work.
Keep exploring
Vehicles we detail
Service areas
Helpful guides