The impaired visibility in the vehicle can be as unsightly as it is dangerous; scratches can be removed from a car window. Like all other parts of a car, the glass is susceptible to damage. You can usually repair a finely scratched windshield yourself, and there are several ways to do this. Additionally, depending on the type or intensity of the scratch, you can take corrective measures to ensure that such damage does not get worse. This can contribute to the overall performance and safety of the vehicle. Here are some simple steps and tips that you can follow to complete the task quickly and easily.
A scratched car window is not uncommon and can not only be annoying but also lead to accidents. Scratches on the windshield can reduce visibility while driving by distracting light. Of course, the damage can even lead to the glass pane shattering. Having it repaired by a professional service can be expensive. Fortunately, there are a few tricks that can help solve such problems, at least temporarily, without the help of a professional. However, before you have to do this, there are some preventative measures you can take. Here are some tips on how to get rid of problematic scratches on theWindshield through better car careavoid.
- Treat fine scratches as early as possible.
- Park your car in an enclosed space, ideally a garage, to reduce the likelihood of scratches on the car windows.
- Check your car wipers regularly. You can remove the windshield wiper scratch by applying polish or using a glass repair kit.
How do you repair a scratched glass pane yourself?
Minor scratches in windshields and vehicle windows can sometimes be repaired at home using simple tools. If your vehicle's glass has shallow scratches, one of these products and home remedies can help you remove or reduce scratches from your car window. Here is a step-by-step guide to using these tools.
Check the depth of the scratch
First, check the depth of the scratches with your fingernail. The applications only work on fine scratches that are usually too shallow to catch your nail. If the scratched area is noticeable, you will likely need to have it inspected by a professional auto glass repair shop. More advanced tools and compounds that can take care of deeper scratches and cracks are available to you. Assuming the scratches on the glass are superficial, you can get the supplies you need. Use the following products to polish your car window:
- ReadyAcrylic nail polish, which only works on the shallowest scratches
- Ceroxid– this is the best product for most minor scratches, but few people have it on hand. Cerium oxide is a polishing agent used on glass, metal and ceramics. It is often referred to as “jeweler’s rouge” and is relatively inexpensive for the amount required.
- Baking soda and toothpastewithout gel - these home remedies are effective, but often require multiple applications
- Acrylic scratch removercan be used in place of clear nail polish, but it does about as good a job.
Remove scratches from a car window with non-gel toothpaste
Another everyday product that comes in handy for auto glass repair is non-gel toothpaste. The product also serves as an abrasive paste when repairing scratched car windows. It takes off a tiny portion of the glass around the scratch. Using non-gel toothpaste makes it possible to even out the entire damaged area. Check out the steps below to apply this method.
- First, dry the glass with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Then apply some toothpaste to a clean, soft cloth.
- Smear the affected area with the toothpaste using circular motions for 30 to 45 seconds
- Afterwards, wipe off the toothpaste with a damp cloth and again use a soft, lint-free cloth to dry the affected area on the windshield.
Use baking soda and toothpaste
The combination of baking soda and toothpaste can be equally effective if you want to remove scratches from your car window. Start by cleaning your car windows with a soft cloth and an alcohol-based cleaner or citric acid. Pay attention to the scratched part of the car window and clean it thoroughly. After cleaning, check the area and make sure all dirt and grime is completely removed.
- First, place a quarter tube of toothpaste in a bowl and add a teaspoon of baking soda.
- Mix the ingredients well with a spatula.
- Then use your fingers to apply some of this mixture to the window scratches.
- Apply light pressure to prevent further damage and rub in circular motions.
- Let the mixture sit for about five minutes.
Remove scratches from a car window with transparent nail polish
A transparent acrylic nail polish, used primarily as a cosmetic product, can serve as an aid to repair minor scratches on the windshield. It has properties that allow it to harden when dried. This allows it to do an excellent job on the shallowest of scratches. Here are the steps to use transparent nail polish.
- First, very carefully apply the nail polish exactly to the scratched area with the brush.
- Then rub off the excess as soon as possible after application.
- Finally, give the stuff some time to dry.
Treat the car window with acrylic scratch remover
An acrylic scratch remover is available in most stores or online. Polishing the glass with it is one of the most effective ways to remove scratches from your car window. Below are the steps to remove scratches with acrylic scratch remover.
- First, apply the acrylic scratch remover to the windshield with a cotton cloth.
- Then rub the stuff over the scratch with a soft microfiber cloth for about 60 to 70 seconds.
- First, let it rest on the windshield for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Then clean the glass with a soft cotton cloth.
- Finally, gently buff up any remaining scratches.
Use cerium oxide
For deeper scratches like thisdirty or old windshield wipersor other minor damage, a more serious solution is required. Many auto glass repair kits contain an ingredient called cerium oxide. When this chemical is incorporated into the glass, it helps bond damaged areas on the car glass. In addition, cerium oxide is often used in polishing jewelry and ceramics.
The set's polishing wheel typically features a dense wool felt wheel mounted on an aluminum adapter plate. Typically, a shank extends from the wheel so that it can be attached to a standard drill. So, after mixing the cerium oxide with water to form a glue-like paste, you can apply the substance to the scratched area. A cordless screwdriver or drill with a polishing wheel attached applies pressure in a scrubbing motion to slowly smooth the surface. As long as the paste remains moist, cerium oxide can be added until a smooth, scratch-free surface is created.
