Scratch identification
Bare-Metal-Looking Scratches
This dark blue panel has a bright silver-looking gouge. Identify the surface on your own car before choosing primer or paint.
Real examples
Bright silver gouge on a dark blue panel
What the photo shows: A bright silver area shows within a gouge on dark blue paint. The photo cannot prove that the exposed surface is bare metal.
What to do next: Check the cleaned spot and identify the exposed material before using primer or paint. If metal is exposed, protect it promptly using the product directions. Ask a body shop about rust, a large gouge, or uncertain material.
Choose paint for your repair
Check that color is missing before buying paint. Choose a kit, then select your vehicle and color.
Paint bottle kit
For a small stable spot after confirming the exposed surface.
Choose your colorWhat am I looking at?
A silver-looking area shows through the dark blue paint. It may be exposed metal or another material with a similar look.
How can I check?
Gently clean and dry the spot. Check for rust and loose paint without picking at it. If you cannot identify the exposed surface, ask a body shop before applying primer.
Can I repair it myself?
A small stable spot may be a do-it-yourself repair after the material is confirmed. Rust, a deep gouge, or a broad area needs more care and may need professional repair.
What products and method fit?
Find your paint code. A matched bottle kit may suit a small missing-color spot. If metal is confirmed, follow the primer and paint directions promptly. Do not choose primer from the photo alone.
Need a next step?
Find your vehicle color before ordering paint. If you are unsure what the photo shows, ask PaintScratch for help.