How much should I charge for scratch removal??

R

Renew Detailing

New member
I clayed and waxed a lawyers Ford F-250 Extended cab today. Now since the scratches aren't hidden by a protective layer of dirt they stand out like a sore thumb. So he asked me how much it would cost to remove some of them. I was thinking $150 to buff and re-wax the truck if it's done soon. But how much should I charge(per scratch) if I just do a scratch here and there? Do you guys think $150 is to low for just a buff and wax(nothing else).:tumblewee
 
I'm just a weekend warrior,but from what i've seen/read around here and my experience,150 bux for a truck is low if you're removing swirls. For a car it might be OK but i'd say you should charge more.



I'm sure the pros will pitch in soon.
 
define scratch. Are we talking someone rubbed up against the car scratch or swirl marks. Offer him a 1 step polish which will probably take you about 4-5 hours to complete and charge no less then $200



There are quite a number of polishes you could use for a 1 step that will yield some excellent results.



Menzerna Power Finish is one

1Z Einszett Metallic PolishWax

1Z Paint Polish

HD Uno



are a few you might want to look into . . . .
 
Because of all the variables involved when polishing out scratches, it is best to charge an hourly rate. Use the knowledge you gained through experience and give a rough estimate of the cost. Unless it is understood that you will only do x polishing steps and then protect the paint. In that case you could give a more accurate estimate.
 
If I'm working on a car doing minor correction and notice a scratch or two that will buff out easily then I just do it at no charge. If they are all over then I tell them they need to jump up to my next package. It really is a case by case decision.
 
vtec92civic said:
define scratch. Are we talking someone rubbed up against the car scratch or swirl marks. Offer him a 1 step polish which will probably take you about 4-5 hours to complete and charge no less then $200



There are quite a number of polishes you could use for a 1 step that will yield some excellent results.



Menzerna Power Finish is one

1Z Einszett Metallic PolishWax

1Z Paint Polish

HD Uno



are a few you might want to look into . . . .
Click to expand...



It's a Ford F-250 Powerstroke Diesel that he uses to haul fire wood and trailer junk cars. It has lagit scratches. I told him on the spot that the rule of thumb is if you can feel it with your finger nail it won't come all the way out but it will be less noticeable.



And I have a half uses gallon of System One from when I use to buff EVERY detail. Then I got one of the 9 oz bottles of HD Uno and I swear by that stuff now! I think I have enough to do the truck. I can always finish with System One even though it makes more of a mess. I've actually never used any 3 step compounds. I just learned to buff last summer however I'm a quick learner. I'm not an expert but I can produce a good finish without holograms.
 
RaskyR1 said:
If I'm working on a car doing minor correction and notice a scratch or two that will buff out easily then I just do it at no charge. If they are all over then I tell them they need to jump up to my next package. It really is a case by case decision.
Click to expand...



I do that also. If it's minor I'll use the HD Uno by hand to rub one out here and there. But this truck has a nice set of 2 foot white scratches across the drive door and others elsewhere to match. Now that I think about it, I have wet-sanded before with success. I could offer to wet sand and buff out the really noticeable areas for $200.



I know that prices vary greatly by location so here is what I charge $150 to do to an average sedan...



Exterior hand wash

Remove bugs, tar and road debris

Clay exterior to remove paint contaminants

Hand wax all painted surfaces

Clean and dress tires

Vacuum interior and trunk

Clean and dress vinyl and leather surfaces

Clean sun visor and mirrors

Clean all windows

Shampoo upholstery and carpet

Clean and dress dashboard and console

Clean all door panels, kick panels and pedals

Clean door jambs and trunk lid

Clean fender wells, wheels and wheel covers

Clean and dress exterior rubber and vinyl as needed

Clean and dress engine compartment
 
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