Scratches on interior car plastic can be unsightly and distracting, especially when they are visible from the driver’s seat. Over time, dirt and dust particles can accumulate in the scratches, making them even more noticeable. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to remove scratches from interior car plastic and make it look as good as new.
Causes of Interior Car Plastic Damage
Interior car plastic is susceptible to damage from a variety of sources. The most common causes of scratches on interior car plastic are fingernails, keys, jewelry and other sharp objects that come into contact with the surface. Even small objects such as crumbs or dirt particles can cause scratches if they become lodged between two surfaces.
Cleaning the Affected Area
Before attempting to remove scratches from interior car plastic, it is important to thoroughly clean the affected area. Use a mild soap and water solution or a suitable commercial cleaner meant for cleaning automotive interiors to remove any dirt or debris that may be present in or around the scratch. Allow the area to dry completely before proceeding with further repairs.
Removing Light Scratches with Polishing Compound
Light scratches can often be removed using a polishing compound specifically designed for automotive interiors. Apply the polishing compound to the affected area with a soft cloth and rub gently in a circular motion. This will help remove built-up dirt from the scratch and restore the original shine of the plastic surface.
Repairing Deep Scratches with Automotive Touch Up Paint
If the scratches are deep, you may need to use an automotive touch up paint to repair them. Use a small brush or toothpick to carefully fill in the scratches with touch up paint, taking care not to spread it outside of the affected area. Allow the paint to dry completely before applying additional layers until it is level with the surrounding surface.
Finishing Touches
Once you have finished repairing or polishing away any scratches, give your interior car plastic a final once-over with a soft cloth and mild detergent solution, then wipe it down with an interior protectant for added protection against future damage.
Conclusion
Removing scratches from interior car plastic can be done quickly and easily following these simple steps. With regular maintenance and cleaning, you can keep your vehicle’s interior looking as good as it did when it left the showroom.
