Quick answer: A good scratch remover handles light scratches and swirl marks in the clear coat — the ones your fingernail can't catch. Apply a little scratch remover on a microfibre cloth, rub in circles, buff off. Deep scratches that catch your nail need professional touch-up.

The fingernail test

Drag your nail across the scratch. Doesn't catch? It's in the clear coat — a scratch remover can polish it out. Catches? It's too deep for DIY.

What to look for

• Safe on all automotive paint colours.
• Fine polishing agents that level the clear coat.
• Works by hand — no machine needed.

How to use it

Wash the area, apply a pea-sized amount to microfibre, rub 30–60 seconds, buff off. Full method in our home scratch removal guide.

FAQ

Works on bikes too? Yes — same method on painted bike and scooter panels.

Fixes deep scratches? No — those need filling and touch-up paint.