Scratch identification
Paint Scratch Identification Guide
Compare real damage photos, learn what to check, and see the repair options. You do not need to choose a car or take a quiz to browse.
Compare real photos, check what you can, and choose a safe next step.
Choose a damage type
Start with the photo that looks most like your car. A photo can help you compare marks, but it cannot prove how deep they are.
Bare-Metal-Looking ScratchesA bright silver mark may be exposed metal, but a photo cannot prove it.
Clear-Coat-Looking ScratchesFine marks can look shallow in a photo, but their depth still needs checking.
Deep Scratches With Primer-Looking MaterialA gray strip may be primer, but a photo cannot identify the layer.
Paint-Transfer-Looking ScuffsA colored smear may sit on top of your paint or mark the finish below.
Peeling Clear Coat and Worn FinishLifting finish may need broad preparation, not a small spot touch-up.
Bumper Scratches and ScuffsBumper marks can be long, broad, or made of several scuffs.
Rock-Chip-Looking MarksA small dark mark may need a spot repair after you inspect it.
Scrapes and Multiple ScratchesSeveral marks may need more than one repair approach.
Need a next step?
Find your vehicle color before ordering paint. If you are unsure what the photo shows, ask PaintScratch for help.