How to Get Key Scratches Out of a Car Door

Unfortunately, it seems as though scratching a car door with a key is one of the inevitable consequences of car ownership. If the scratch penetrates the paint deep enough, rust can develop and cause more serious problems. The obvious way to fix key scratches on a car door is to have the door repainted. However, this can be an expensive solution. Thankfully, there exists a much cheaper alternative that can be explored by anyone with no automotive knowledge. Rubbing compound is readily available from most automotive-parts dealers and is an excellent way to fix scratches in paint.

Things You'll Need

  • Rubbing compound
  • Cloth
  • Wash and dry the vehicle to avoid scratching the car any further when using the compound.

  • Apply a quarter-sized amount of the rubbing compound to a soft, clean cotton cloth.

  • Apply the rubbing compound on the cloth to the paint surface.

  • Work the scratched area of the door by making a firm, circular motion with the cloth.

  • Wait for the rubbing compound to dry. When dry, the compound will appear to be a chalky white color.

  • Remove the dried rubbing compound from the door with a clean, soft cotton towel.

  • Repeat as necessary.