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Nothing can be more frustrating than finding a scratch on your car window. Whether it’s from a stray tree branch or a careless mechanic, these unsightly scratches can make your car look dull and unappealing.
Fortunately, you don’t need to take your car to a professional to fix it. Today, we’ll share some simple and effective ways to remove scratches from your car windows, be it windshield or side windows. You don’t need to be a car expert or have any special tools – just follow these tips and enjoy a scratch-free window.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just looking to save some cash, we present some of the easiest ways to shine that glass.
Make Sure It’s a Scratch
If you’re trying to determine whether a mark on your window is a scratch or an artifact from a bug or tree sap, there are a few things you can do. First, run your fingernail over the mark. If it catches, it’s likely a scratch. If it doesn’t catch, or if it is “soft” it’s probably debris.
You can also try rubbing the mark with a cloth or towel. If the mark changes, it’s likely debris that can be buffed out. However, if the mark remains, it’s probably a deeper scratch that may require a more involved repair.
How To Remove Scratches From Your Car Windows
Now, let’s get down to the main business. Here are the different ways to clean up minor scratches from your car windows.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste is a popular and inexpensive method for removing minor scratch marks from car windows. The lightly abrasive qualities of toothpaste can help to smooth out the surface of the glass and reduce the scratch’s appearance.
Here’s how to use toothpaste to remove small scratches from your car windows:
- Start by cleaning the window with soap and water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Dry the glass surface with a clean cloth.
- Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste onto a soft, clean microfiber cloth.
- Gently rub the toothpaste (typically a non-gel toothpaste) onto the scratched area using circular motions. Make sure to cover the entire scratch.
- Rinse the window with water and wipe it dry with a clean cloth.
- Check to see if the scratch is still visible. If it is, repeat the process until the scratch is no longer visible.
Note that toothpaste is only effective for light scratches. If there are deeper scratches, using a white toothpaste trick may not be enough to remove them completely. Make sure not to use excessive toothpaste to avoid further damaging the glass.
Baking Soda and Water
Baking soda and water are among the best options for removing shallow scratches from car windows. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help to smooth out the surface of the glass and reduce the visibility of the scratch.
Here’s how you can use it:
- Once you clean the car’s glass with soap and water, apply the paste of baking soda and water (created by mixing equal parts) on the affected area.
- Use a clean damp cloth and rub the paste on the auto glass in a circular motion and cover the entire scratch.
- Rinse the window with water and wipe it dry with a clean cloth.
- To achieve the best results, keep repeating the process till the scratch marks become invisible.
- Additionally, make sure to use a soft cloth when applying baking soda paste to avoid further damaging the glass.
Glass Polishing Compounds
One of the best ways to deal with your windshield scratches or side windows is to use glass polishing compounds.
There are various types of scratch removal compounds, such as acrylic scratch remover, that are designed to remove scratch marks and imperfections from glass surfaces. These rubbing compounds work by using abrasive particles that gently buff away the top layer of the glass, smoothing out any fine scratches or blemishes.
The first thing you will need to do is apply the rubbing compound to a soft, lint-free cloth and rub it onto the damaged area using circular motions. The next step after buffing the scratch with the compound, you will need to rinse the entire window with water and dry it with a clean cloth.
Overusing these products can cause the glass surface to become thin and weak, making it more prone to breaking or cracking. Additionally, it’s important to avoid using glass polishing compounds on tempered or laminated glass, as these types of glass can be more sensitive to abrasives.
Cerium Oxide
Cerium oxide is a popular glass polishing and repair product that is often used for removing larger scratches and blemishes from car windows. This product is a fine abrasive powder that is mixed with water to create a paste, which is then applied to the scratched area using a soft cloth or sponge.
To use cerium oxide for removing scratches from car windows, you will need to follow a few simple steps:
- Clean the glass surface. Before applying the cerium oxide paste, it’s important to clean the glass surface thoroughly using a glass cleaner and a soft, lint-free cloth. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that could further scratch the glass.
- Mix the cerium oxide paste. In a small bowl, mix the cerium oxide powder with water to create a thick paste. The ratio of powder to water will depend on the specific product you are using.
- Apply the paste to the scratched area. Using a soft cloth or sponge, apply a little bit of cerium oxide paste to the scratched area using circular motions. Apply gentle pressure, but be careful not to press too hard, as this could cause further damage to the glass.
- Buff the scratched area. Once you have applied the cerium oxide paste, use a clean cloth to buff the scratched area in circular motions. Continue buffing until the scratch is no longer visible.
- Clean and dry the glass surface. After removing the scratch, clean the glass surface again using a glass cleaner and a clean cloth. Be sure to remove any excess cerium oxide paste from the glass surface. Finally, dry the glass surface thoroughly using a clean, lint-free cloth.
A Glass Repair Kit
A glass repair kit is a do-it-yourself solution for repairing minor scratches and chips in car windows. These kits typically include all of the tools and materials needed to complete the repair, including a resin, curing film, and a syringe or applicator.
Before beginning the repair process, clean the glass surface thoroughly using a glass cleaner and a soft, lint-free cloth.
Apply a small amount of the resin to the applicator or syringe included in the kit, and then apply the resin to the scratched or chipped area on the glass surface.
Once the resin has been applied, place the curing film over the damaged area and press down firmly. The curing film is designed to keep the resin in place and to protect it from dust and debris while it cures.
Depending on the specific product you are using, the resin may need to cure for several hours or overnight. Once the resin has cured, carefully remove the curing film and use a glass polishing compound to polish the surface of the repaired area. This will help to blend the repair with the surrounding glass surface, making it less noticeable.
Glass repair kits can be an effective solution for repairing minor scratches and chips in car windows. However, it’s important to note that these kits may not be suitable for all types of damage, and some repairs may require the assistance of a professional.
Is Nail Polish Remover a Good Option?
While nail paint remover can be effective for removing nail polish or acrylic paint from car windows, it is not recommended to use it to clean scratches on the glass. This is because nail polish remover contains harsh chemicals that can damage the glass surface, causing it to become cloudy or hazy.
Furthermore, nail polish remover is not designed to remove scratches from glass, and using it for this purpose may actually make the scratch worse.
Some Top Tips to Avoid Scratching of Your Car Windows and Windshield
- Use the right cleaning materials
- Avoid extreme temperatures
- Replace old wiper blades – don’t allow the arms to touch the glass!
- Avoid contact with sharp objects near windshield and windows
- Use a protector for your car’s windshield
Scratch This One Off Your List!
No need to live with unsightly scratches on your car windows any longer. With a little bit of toothpaste, baking soda, or glass polishing compound, you can buff those blemishes away and have your car looking like new in no time.
But let’s not forget prevention is key! So, keep those sharp objects away from your windows, watch out for those windshield wipers, and invest in a good windshield protector for those chilly winter months.
Now go forth and enjoy your scratch-free, crystal-clear view of the open road!
