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Understanding how scratch removal works starts with the structure of modern automotive paint:​

• Clear Coat: Top transparent layer, very thin (less than a sticky note). Most light scratches live here. 

• Basecoat (Color): The layer providing the car’s color. Scratches down here require more advanced repair. 

• Primer: A foundational layer bonding paint to the metal or plastic body. Scratches reaching here are deep and often need repainting. 

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 Types of Scratches & Repair Options

1. Light or Swirl Scratches (Clear Coat only): Surface-level, barely noticeable.

   • Repair: Polish or light buff to refine the surface. 

2. Deeper Clear Coat Scratches (Level 1B): Visible lines into the clear layer, may catch a fingernail.

   • Repair: Machine polishing with compound to level out edges, then fine polish to restore gloss. 

3. Basecoat Scratches (Level 2): Cuts into color layer without metal exposure.

   • Repair: May need touch-up paint, polish, or wet sanding if necessary. Complete removal is often impossible. 

4. Primer or Metal Exposure: Deep gouges that expose primer or metal.

   • Repair: Often requires repainting or body-shop level repair. Polishing only reduces appearance. 

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How It Works: Polishing & Compounding

• Compounds contain abrasive particles to remove tiny layers of clear coat, smoothing out scratches.

• Polishes are finer abrasives that restore gloss and enhance reflectivity. 

• Machine polishers (dual‑action or orbital) apply even pressure and reduce heat buildup for safe and accurate correction. 

The goal is to reshape the V‑shaped scratch into a flatter groove that no longer catches light — making scratches visually disappear. 

A Flat Surface Brings Reflection, Reflection Brings Shine!

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Fingernail Test: Your Quick Scratch Check

• Swipe a fingernail across the scratch.

  • If it doesn’t catch, the scratch is likely only in the clear coat and can often be fully polished out.

  • If it catches, it may go into basecoat or primer — full removal may not be possible. 

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​Protection & Prevention

After correction, a sealant, wax, or ceramic coating is applied to protect the revitalized surface and maintain shine. This helps prevent future abrasion and UV damage.

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Summary

• Scratch depth determines repair method:

  • Surface-level? Polish it.

  • Deeper into clear coat? Compound + polish.

  • Into color or primer? Touch-up or repaint needed.

• The polishing process carefully removes microscopic clear-coat layers to level and reflect light correctly.

• Proper testing and protection afterward ensure lasting results.

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Why Certified Detailing Matters

Modern vehicle paint is delicate, and removing scratches or restoring shine isn't as simple as grabbing a buffer and watching a few YouTube videos. In fact, improper techniques or cheap products can permanently damage your clear coat, cause uneven finishes, or even burn through paint layers.

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That’s why having your vehicle cared for by a trained and certified professional is critical.

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At Battle Dog NWA, we understand the science behind paint systems, abrasives, and correction methods. We’ve invested in hands-on training, professional certification, and use only industry-grade products and equipment. We correct imperfections the right way — safely, precisely, and with long-term protection in mind.

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There are countless online “detailers” who mean well, but simply lack the proper training — and your vehicle shouldn't be a test subject.

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Trust the professionals. Trust Battle Dog NWA.
Veteran-owned. Certified. Detail-driven.