# How to Remove Scratches from Car Interior Plastic
Interior plastic scratches from rings, keys, pets, and daily wear make your car look older than it is. Most scratches can be fixed at home with the right technique.
## Assess the Damage
**Light scratches** (fingernail doesn't catch): Surface-level, easy to fix
**Medium scratches** (fingernail catches slightly): Need filling or heat treatment
**Deep scratches/gouges** (visible groove): Need filling, sanding, and texture matching
## Method 1: Heat Gun (Light to Medium Scratches)
The heat gun method works by melting the plastic surface to fill scratches.
### What You Need
- Heat gun (not hair dryer — not hot enough)
- Microfiber cloth
- Plastic cleaner
### Steps
1. Clean the scratched area thoroughly
2. Set heat gun to low-medium (300-400°F)
3. Hold 6-8 inches from the surface
4. Move in slow circular motions
5. Watch for the plastic to slightly shine — that means it's working
6. Stop immediately if you see bubbling or warping
7. Let cool completely before touching
### ⚠️ Warnings
- Never hold the heat gun still — keep it moving
- Test on an inconspicuous area first
- Don't use on soft-touch or painted plastic
- Keep away from electronics and wiring
## Method 2: Sanding and Texture Restoration (Deep Scratches)
### What You Need
- Wet/dry sandpaper (800, 1500, 2000 grit)
- Texture spray or heat gun
- Plastic dye/paint (color matched)
- Masking tape
### Steps
1. Tape off surrounding areas
2. Wet sand with 800 grit until scratch is level
3. Progress to 1500 grit to smooth
4. Finish with 2000 grit for a base surface
5. Apply texture spray to match surrounding grain
6. Apply color-matched dye in thin coats
7. Let dry 24 hours before use
## Method 3: Plastic Filler (Gouges and Deep Gouges)
1. Clean and dry the damaged area
2. Apply plastic body filler into the gouge
3. Overfill slightly to account for shrinkage
4. Let cure per manufacturer instructions
5. Sand flush with surrounding surface
6. Apply texture and color matching
## Prevention Tips
- Apply plastic protectant monthly (creates a sacrificial layer)
- Keep keys and metal objects in a pouch, not on console
- Trim pet nails regularly if they ride in the car
- Use seat-back organizers to prevent shoe scuffs
## When to Seek Professional Help
- Cracks that go through the plastic
- Damage near airbag housings
- Large areas requiring color matching on rare colors
- Soft-touch coated surfaces that are peeling
