Scratch removers group test

Tiny scratch marks are easy to pick up on your car’s bodywork. They can be caused by everything from overgrown bushes next to your driveway, grit stuck in your sponge when cleaning and even cats sitting on your bonnet when the engine’s still warm. The good news is that you don’t need a costly professional repair, as off-the-shelf products can remove a lot of minor imperfections.

But with so many on sale, and some containing abrasives which can all too easily damage paintwork, which is the best? We tested 12 to find out.

How we tested them

You can apply scratch removers with dual-action polishers or rotary machines, but these are pricey – so we applied by hand.

We took a scrap car body panel with fine scratches and swirls, and divided it up into 12 sections. Each product was applied to its section, and we noted how easy this was and how good the instructions were.

We tested progress on removing swirls and scratches you can see, but can’t feel with your fingernail. Products that left a shiny finish got our vote, as they mean you needn’t polish your car afterwards. We also rated value, based on price per 100ml.

Verdict

Several new products have been launched since we last performed a test of scratch removers. Our winner then – Autoglym Paint Renovator – has to settle for the runner’s up spot this time round, because the new Farecla G3 formula offers similar performance for a better price. Both are easy to apply; the G3 is just better value.

The final place on our podium goes to another recently launched product – Britemax AIO-Max – which is also straightforward to apply.

1. Farecla G3 Scratch Remover
2. Autoglym Paint Renovator
3. Britemax AIO-Max