If you’ve ever discovered a scratch on your car’s surface, you know how frustrating it can be. Maybe it appeared after a trip to the grocery store, from a runaway shopping cart. Perhaps it came from brushing against a low-hanging branch, or even from a simple parking lot mishap. No matter how it happened, the question we often hear at Kunes Auto Body is: “Can you fix this?” The answer is almost always yes — and we’re here to explain how.

Before we can repair a scratch, it’s important to understand what kind of damage we’re dealing with. Not all scratches are the same, and each requires a different level of care. Your vehicle’s paint system is made up of multiple layers:

• Clear Coat: This is the top layer that provides gloss and protection.
• Base Coat: This is the colored paint that gives your car its visual appeal.
• Primer: Beneath the color, the primer helps the paint adhere to the body.
• Metal Body Panel: At the foundation is the metal structure of your vehicle.

Scratches can affect just the clear coat or go much deeper, even reaching the metal. At Kunes Auto Body, our experienced technicians evaluate the depth and severity of each scratch before determining the best repair solution.

These are the most common and easiest to repair. Surface scratches typically come from car washes, dirt or grit rubbing against the paint, or accidental contact with bushes or debris. If the scratch hasn’t penetrated the base coat, it’s considered a clear coat scratch.

How we fix it:

We use professional-grade polishers, compounds, and buffing tools to remove these imperfections. By carefully smoothing the affected area, we can restore the original shine without altering the underlying paint. In many cases, these scratches can be eliminated entirely in a single visit.

If the scratch has gone beyond the clear coat and into the color layer, it requires a more detailed process. These types of scratches are often caused by keying, door dings, or more substantial contact with objects.

How we fix it:

We begin by gently sanding the area to smooth out the edges of the scratch. Then we apply matching touch-up paint, followed by blending and sealing the repair with a new layer of clear coat. Our team uses advanced color-matching technology to ensure a seamless finish that blends perfectly with the rest of your vehicle.

When a scratch goes all the way through to the primer or even exposes bare metal, it’s considered severe. These kinds of scratches not only affect your car’s appearance but can also lead to long-term damage if left untreated — including rust and corrosion.

How we fix it:
Deep scratches require a multi-step process. First, we clean and sand the area to remove any debris or rust. Then we apply primer, followed by a precision-matched base coat and several layers of clear coat. Once cured, we polish the area to match the surrounding surface, restoring both appearance and structural integrity.

Even minor scratches can lead to major issues if not addressed. Over time, moisture can penetrate unprotected areas and cause rust, especially in climates with high humidity, road salt, or harsh winters. By repairing scratches promptly, you’re not only protecting your investment but also preserving the resale value of your vehicle.

At Kunes Auto Body, we understand how important your car is to you. It’s more than just a mode of transportation — it’s part of your daily life. That’s why we go above and beyond to provide:

• Experienced, certified technicians who treat every car with care and precision
• Advanced tools and equipment that ensure top-tier results every time
• Industry-leading paint matching technology for a flawless finish
• Transparent, honest communication about your repair options and pricing
• Coordination with your insurance provider to make the process as smooth as possible

Whether it’s a small blemish or a more complex repair, we’re committed to making your vehicle look like new again — and getting you back on the road with confidence.

If your vehicle has a scratch and you’re wondering what it will take to fix it, the best first step is to bring it in for a free estimate. Our team will evaluate the damage, walk you through the repair process, and provide clear, no-obligation pricing. In many cases, light to moderate scratches can be repaired quickly — sometimes even the same day.