Scrape the car into a wall, a parking pillar or even a shrub can leave visible risks in the painting. Sometimes the driver doesn’t even notice at the moment. Only later, when washing or drying the car, notes the risk, discreet but present, to interrupt the surface shine.
Situations like these are frequent and do not always imply a trip to the workshop. It is often possible to solve the problem with simple methods and affordable products. Still, it is important to know when the home solution is sufficient and when it should be left to the professionals.
According to the Club of Portugal (ACP), the first step consists of passing the finger at risk. If the nail arrests or there is a gap to the touch, the safest is to seek technical support. But if the finger slides easily, the risk is superficial and can be treated at home.
Cleaning before removal is essential
Before any attempted risk removal in the car, it is necessary to ensure that the area is clean and dry. ACP advises the use of warm water with mild soap to wash the damaged surface well. After rinsing, it should be dry with a clean and loose fiber cloth.
This step is essential to prevent invisible dirt from the naked eye from being dragged during polishing, which could aggravate the state of painting. According to the same source, neglecting cleaning can compromise the whole process.
Choosing the right product makes a difference
There are several solutions for risk removal on the market. Some come with polishing pillows included, some not. It is important to carefully read the purchased product instructions as the application can vary according to the composition.
Circular movements
With the zone properly cleaned and the product ready to use, the polller should apply with circular and constant movements. The goal is for the substance to act uniformly without exerting excessive pressure that can cause additional damage.
Do not forget the final waste
After application, the surface should be cleaned again with a microfiber cloth. The ACP warns of the importance of not letting the remains of the product dry on painting as they can create stains or new marks.
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Temporary or lasting solution?
Risk removal in the car through this method is effective in slight cases, but does not replace deeper repairs. If the varnish is compromised or there is exposure of the metal, the use of a professional is recommended.
Always check the type of damage before acting
Not all risks have the same origin or the same solution. The scraping caused by branches, for example, tends to be lighter than a scratch made with metallic objects. Understanding the type of risk helps choose the most appropriate treatment.
Follow the step by step carefully
The procedures indicated by the ACP should be rigorously followed. From cleaning to removal of product excesses, each step has an impact on the end result. Attention to detail makes the difference between an effective retouching and a stained painting.
Test in a small zone is a safe option
For those who have questions about the effect of the product, the ideal is to make a small application in a less visible zone of the vehicle. If there is no unwanted changes, then it can be applied in the main area.
With a microfiber cloth, a polishing pillow and the proper solution, satisfactory results can be achieved in the risk removal in the car without resorting to costly equipment.
Avoiding future risks is also possible
Opt for large parking lots, moving away from trees and avoiding rough surfaces are simple ways to avoid further risks in painting. According to, prevention remains the best way to avoid problems.
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