How Much Does It Cost to Buff a Car Scratch

Buffing a light surface scratch usually costs from
   $50 to
   $150 for a small spot.
   If you need panel-level correction or multiple panels the price typically moves from
   $150 to
   $500.
   If paint or primer needs repair, expect to pay anywhere between
   $400 to
   $1,500 depending on the repair depth and whether a panel repaint is required. 

What is Buffing and How Does it Differ from Polishing

Buffing is a cutting and smoothing process that removes a very thin layer of the clear coat to level small surface marks. Polishing is milder and aims to refine gloss and remove light swirls without aggressive paint removal.

Think of polishing as gentle sanding with fine paper and buffing as a slightly coarser pass that evens out the surface. Both use machines, pads, and compounds; the only difference is how much clear coat is removed.

How Much To Buff a Car: Pricing Table

Use these prices as ballpark numbers. Final cost depends on vehicle size, paint type, and severity.

Cost breakdown: What you are actually paying for

• Labor: most of the cost. Proper buffing and paint correction take time and skill.
• Materials: compounds, pads, masking tape, paint, and clear coat.
• Tools: professional polishers, backing plates, and sometimes wet sanding gear.
• Panel blending and paint matching: if paint is required, matching and blending adjacent panels raises cost.
• Mobile service fees: Some shops charge an extra fee to come to you.

How To Tell If Buffing Will Work: Quick Checks You Can Do)

Do these three checks before you book anything:

1. Fingernail test: Run your fingernail over the scratch. If your nail does not catch, it is usually a clear coat mark that can often be buffed out.
2. Colour check: If you can see a different colour inside the scratch, such as white or grey, it likely reached the primer or metal, and buffing alone will not fix it.
3. Edge and location check: Scratches on flat panels are easier to correct than those along sharp edges or body lines. Curved panels and edges often need paint blending or touch-up.

If you are not sure about buffing, talk to a professional detailing service provider for expert advice and a better decision. 

Diy Kits Vs Professional Detailer: When To Choose Each

When DIY Buffing Makes Sense

• The scratch is shallow, and your fingernail does not catch.
• You are comfortable using a DA polisher and have time.
• You want a low-cost, quick fix and accept imperfect results.

Kits cost from about $20 to $100. They sometimes improve scuffs but can leave swirl marks if used incorrectly. If the scratch is deeper than the clear coat, kits will not help.

When to Hire a Pro for Buffing a Car

• Scratch catches with a fingernail or shows a different colour.
• The vehicle has high-value paint or a complex finish like metallic, pearlescent, or matte.
• You want a long lasting, flawless finish.

People often choose professional detailers for the following reasons:

• Significant damage: Professionals are more proficient when dealing with noticeable keyed car scratches or severe car damage. They use more advanced techniques, tools, and products to ensure a more superb quality of services.
• Expertise: Professional detailers have the experience and training to produce superior-quality services.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth it to buff the car from professional detailers?

It would be worth it if you expect a high-quality service to best maximize your car’s value and appearance. Professional detailers use professional technologies and chemicals for buffing to ensure the best result of the service. 

How frequently should I buff my car? 

The frequency of buffing your car could vary depending on the conditions and type of car you have. Generally, it is recommended to buff cars once or twice each year. 

Are there any disadvantages or risks of buffing?

The risk of buffing is the possibility of further damage to the paint on the car or an uneven finish. However, these scenarios typically occur with providers who are less competent or who buff by themselves. In a professional detailer's place, the risk of such a scenario occurring is greatly decreased.