Does Paint Correction Fix Scratches?

juan martin salazar
Jun 5
2 min read

Understanding What It Can (and Can’t) Do for Your Vehicle’s Paint

If your vehicle’s finish is covered in light scratches or swirl marks, you may be wondering: Does paint correction actually fix scratches? The short answer is—yes, but not all of them.

For drivers in Aurora, Colorado, where weather, road debris, and car washes are hard on paint, paint correction can be a powerful way to restore your vehicle’s appearance. Here's what it can—and can't—do.

What Is Paint Correction?

Paint correction is a professional detailing process that removes imperfections in the top layer of your car’s paint, called the clear coat. It involves:

Machine polishing
Cutting compounds
Refining abrasives
Sealant or ceramic coating protection (optional)

The goal is to level out the clear coat and eliminate surface-level damage.

Types of Scratches Paint Correction Can Fix

✅ Clear Coat Scratches: Most swirl marks and light scratches caused by improper washing, brushes, or general wear can be removed.

✅ Scuff Marks: Superficial scuffs from contact with bags, branches, or light scraping are often fully removed with polishing.

✅ Oxidation & Haze: Paint correction also clears up sun damage and dullness caused by oxidation—common in Colorado’s UV-intense climate.

Scratches Paint Correction Can't Fix

❌ Deep Scratches: If a scratch cuts through the clear coat into the color layer or primer, paint correction won’t work. You’ll likely need touch-up paint or professional refinishing.

❌ Paint Chips: These require separate repair methods. Paint correction won’t fill missing paint.

❌ Body Damage: Dents, gouges, and rust need body shop services—not detailing.

How to Tell What Can Be Corrected

Here’s a quick test: Run your fingernail over the scratch.

If your nail catches, it’s probably too deep for paint correction.
If it glides over the mark, there’s a good chance correction will work.

For a proper assessment, professionals use paint depth gauges and inspection lights to evaluate your vehicle’s condition.

Paint Correction in Aurora, Colorado

Colorado weather is harsh on your vehicle. Between snow, road salt, and summer sun, scratches and oxidation are common. That’s where Moose Car Care in Aurora comes in.

We offer:

Multi-stage paint correction
Polishing for swirl removal
Ceramic coating protection
Paint chip repair (if needed)

Our detailing experts will inspect your vehicle and recommend the best service for your paint’s condition.

Should You Combine Paint Correction with Ceramic Coating?

Absolutely. Once the scratches are corrected, applying a ceramic coating helps:

Protect the finish
Resist future scratching
Make washing easier
Maintain gloss long-term

It’s the best way to lock in the results of a correction job—especially in a place like Aurora with fluctuating temperatures and UV exposure.

Paint correction can fix many types of scratches, especially swirl marks. However, deep paint scratches and chips require different solutions.

If your car’s paint isn’t looking its best, let the pros at Moose Car Care in Aurora, CO evaluate your vehicle and recommend a restoration plan. With expert paint correction and protective finishes, we’ll help your car shine like new.