Bodywork and paint repairOctober 16, 2026

How to fix a scuffed bumper

If the mark is paint from another car or a wall, you can often polish it off in ten minutes. If the bumper paint itself is scratched or the plastic is gouged, it needs a repair, and that is worth doing before it weathers.

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First, work out what kind of scuff it is

Scratches through the paint need repainting, and deeper gouges need filling first. Touch-up pens can hide small marks, but they rarely match perfectly. A split bumper needs more than paint, and our guide on whether a split bumper can be repaired covers the options. Split bumpers are repaired or replaced, depending on the damage.

Wash and dry the bumper

so grit does not scratch the paint while you work.

Test a small area first

with a mild scratch-removal polish on a microfibre cloth.

Rub in small circles

with light pressure for about a minute, then wipe clean and check.

Repeat up to three times

. If the mark is still there, the paint underneath is damaged and polish will not help.

Frequently asked questions

Can I polish out a bumper scuff?

If it is paint transfer, often yes. If the bumper paint is scratched, polish will only dull the area and it needs repair.

How long does a bumper repair take?

Minor bodywork repairs can be done within 24 hours. Larger jobs take longer, and we tell you when we quote.

Will the colour match?

We colour-match to your paint code and blend the finish so the repair does not stand out.

Do I need to book?

Call us or send a photo first and we will book a time. We cannot promise walk-ins.