Removing scratches and scuffs from a plastic bumper

[Calbrez]

Hey folks,

Well, I just managed to push out a dent on my front bumper. I heated it up  first then used a canoe paddle

I am left with the scratches on the plastic. What is the best method to easily cover this up? Should I sand it ? Buff? Paint?

Thanks!!

[dr_spock]

Assuming they are not deep gouges, try some polishing compound first and see if that takes them out.

Post some pics.   

[Calbrez]

Is polishing compound and polishing cream the same thing?

Sorry, I'm a bit of a moron when it comes to this stuff!


Thanks very much...

[curls]

Depends on if the scuffs are down to the colour-coat, or worse, to the primer or bare plastic.  The general rule is to always start with the least abraisive / most mild stuff, and work your way up if necessary.  Try something like Scratch-X or a polishing compound/cream (should be the same thing).  If those don't work, a rubbing compound might be the next step (followed by a polishing compound).  If rubbing compound doesn't work, wet-sanding and/or re-painting the area might be warranted.  But this is getting into an area that a newbie to body/paint work probably shouldn't touch.  At this point, take it in for an estimate on the repair, or, live with the damage as-is.

Got any pics?

[airbalancer]

Call a detailer , see is he can get them out

[Calbrez]

Tried the polishing compound. Didn't really work, to be honest.. tried a few applications. Even tried it on the really minor scratches... didn't really notice much diff.

Oh well...least I fixed the dent!

[curls]

Tried the polishing compound. Didn't really work, to be honest.. tried a few applications. Even tried it on the really minor scratches... didn't really notice much diff.

Oh well...least I fixed the dent!

How much did you work the polishing compound in?  I only ask because I've seen more than a few people buy stuff like Scratch-X and apply it like wax: wax on, wax off.  Of course that won't work, it's supposed to be an abrasive!  With polishing compound, you really won't get out much more than swirls or fine clearcoat scratches.  Anything into the colour coat and you'll need touch-up paint at some point to make it look less like a scratch and more like a normal bumper.