Ho to deal with light scratches on the hood of a car?

Question

What's the best way to deal with light scratches on the hood of a car? I have a 2005 black Saturn Ion, and I like to keep that nice black glow to it. Unfortunately, while trying to remove some hard ice from the hood, it got a little scratched from the plastic ice scraper. They're very mild scratches, only visible in the light, and it doesn't break the surface coat. They're just little waxy-looking lines on the hood. I've heard of buffing or waxing out scratches... how does that work? Do I need a buffing machine or is there an easier way?

Answer 1

On a black car you have to be careful, I would wash the car, use a clay bar to clean the surface, then a polishing product like Klasse All in one with a random orbital polishing machine or by hand, never use rotary buffers or you will swirl the finish. Do not use anything abrasive like a rubbing compound, After you polish, put down some good polymer wax.

Answer 2

You can do it by hand. It just takes a little longer. Use a wax with a cleaner in it to help remove the scratches.
Using a buffing wheel can really make the matter worse, if you don't know what you are doing or have little experience with it. You can swirl the paint, and you will have swirls all over the hood instead of a scratch.
Maybe the best idea would be to take it to a body shop and let them buff it out for you, it may cost a buck or two, but it will get rid of the problem.

Answer 3

just put a light coat of wax over the scratches and let it dry to a light haze. then buff it out a buffer would probably be easier but a cloth should work.

Answer 4

A good paste wax like Mothers will do the trick.

Answer 5

Use a fine rubbing compound. A buffer is nice but you don't need one. Apply wax afterwards.