The most minor auto body repair services are generally scratches. From one small scratch from a wayward zipper against your door to a series of long scratches from a close fender-bender in Los Angeles, car scratches are relatively easy to repair. But you must take care of them soon before the weather causes more extensive damage behind the layer of paint and protectant that’s no longer there.
So, how much does it cost to fix a car scratch? Find out the basics of car scratch repair costs with our guide below!How to Fix Scratches on Your Car
There are DIY options to fix scratches on a car, and they can cost as little as $10. This process can be as simple as covering a scratch with matched paint. Or, you might need to mix epoxy and sand it down before covering it with auto paint.
If the scratch goes deep into the primer, the car scratch repair becomes more expensive and complicated because it requires precise layers of work. If you see bare metal due to the scratch, you need to get it fixed ASAP because you don’t want rust to become a problem.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Car Scratch?
How much it costs to fix scratches on a car depends on several factors. In general, the cost to fix a car scratch at an auto body repair shop can range from $200 to $1,000. Here are some factors that affect car scratch repair costs:
- Age of the car: Older cars have different types of paint compared to newer models.
- Depth of the scratches: Deep scratches to the metal require immediate attention and different processes.
- Length of the scratches: When scratches are longer, it takes more materials and more time to fix them.
- Number of scratches: If you have multiple scratches, it may take longer to repair.
In general, short scratches that aren’t very deep won’t cost as much as longer or deeper scratches. How much it costs to fix scratches on a car mostly depends on the labor costs involved.
When to Bring Car Scratches to Us for Repairs
You might think to yourself that DIY car scratch repair is easier and cheaper than bringing it to a professional auto body repair shop. However, it’s best to bring your car in for professional scratch repairs when:
- The repair job is complicated and beyond your level of knowledge.
- You don’t have time to fix them yourself.
- The scratches reach the metal.
- There are many scratches.
- The scratches are extensive.
- There are also dents alongside the scratches.
- You see a different color under the scratch.
Get Full-Service Auto Body Repair at Eli’s Collision Repair
If you see scratches on your car, don’t wait to repair them. We’ll give you an honest estimate for the repairs and work with you to get the best possible results. Look at our before and after photos to see the quality of our work. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions!