How To Remove Scratches From A Windshield: 11 Steps - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Remove Scratches from a Windshield PDF download Download Article Co-authored by Chad Zani

Last Updated: October 28, 2025 Fact Checked

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  • Washing and Protecting the Windshield
    • |
  • Buffing out Scratches
    • |
  • Video
    • |
  • Expert Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
    • |
  • Warnings
    • |
  • Things You'll Need
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This article was co-authored by Chad Zani. Chad Zani is an Auto Detailing Expert based in Los Angeles, California. He is the Director of Franchising at Detail Garage, an automotive detailing company with locations around the U.S. and Sweden. He and his team are auto detailing experts that offer detailing and car care services. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 381,744 times.

Windshield scratches are a nuisance, but you don’t need to tolerate them. Most scratches are fixable with a windshield polish and a buffing pad. Cerium oxide paste is effective for filling in scratches, making your windshield look as good as new without much effort. For gouges, cracks, and chips, consider taking the windshield to a professional or getting a replacement.

Fixing a Scratched Windshield

Spray the area with a glass cleaner and wipe with a microfiber cloth. Cover the edges with painter's tape, then buy a glass repair kit with cerium oxide in it. Put on rubber gloves and combine 1 part water with 2 parts cerium oxide powder. Apply the mixture to a buffing pad and run it back and forth over the scratch.

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 2:

Washing and Protecting the Windshield

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  1. Step 1 Run your finger over the scratch to see how deep it is. 1 Run your finger over the scratch to see how deep it is. Hold your finger vertically. If your nail catches, you’ve got a deep scratch on your hands. Deep scratches aren’t fixable. Scratches that feel smooth to the touch are shallow enough to be fixable.[1]
    • Deep scratches continue to grow until your windshield breaks. Ask a glass repair specialist for advice. They may tell you to replace your entire windshield.
  2. Step 2 Wash the windshield... 2 Wash the windshield with a glass cleaner, then dry it completely. Clean off all dirt and debris before attempting to apply a polishing product.[2] Start with a regular window cleaner. Spray it onto the window, then wipe it off with microfiber cloths. Use specialty glass cleaners to treat tougher stains.[3]
    • Dish soap abrades car paint, so using it on a windshield isn’t safe. Instead, try mixing together 1 part vinegar with 1 part water. Alternatively, use an all-purpose cleaner or degreaser.
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  3. Step 3 Scrape off stubborn grime with a plastic razor. 3 Scrape off stubborn grime with a plastic razor. Only use plastic, since metal razors will likely lead to more scratches on your car’s windshield. Stand beside the car and drag the razor back and forth along the windshield. Continue doing this until the grime is gone, then finish up with a damp microfiber cloth.
  4. Step 4 Cover the edges of the windshield with painter's tape. 4 Cover the edges of the windshield with painter's tape. You only need to apply the tape around the edges closest to the scratches. This includes the edges of the windshield wipers. The polish will splatter when you work it into the scratches, and anything that gets in between the windshield and the rest of the car is hard to remove.[4]
    • Also, consider using the tape to outline the scratches. Place the tape on the inside part of the windshield to keep track of which spots you need to treat.
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Part 2 Part 2 of 2:

Buffing out Scratches

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  1. Step 1 Purchase a glass repair kit with cerium oxide polish in it. 1 Purchase a glass repair kit with cerium oxide polish in it. Every tool you need to repair scratches comes in a repair kit. Repair kits include a polishing compound along with a buffing pad. Cerium oxide is the most common type of polish in these kits, but other products are available and work the same way.[5]
    • Kits are available online or at most auto parts stores.
    • An acrylic scratch remover is a product similar to cerium oxide. It comes in a liquid form you drip onto the buffing pad. It works best on lighter scratches.
    • Another option is to assemble the kit components separately. Get cerium oxide or another rubbing compound. If you have a handheld buffing and polishing tool, use that to apply the polish.[6]
  2. Step 2 Use white toothpaste as an alternative to buffing compounds. 2 Use white toothpaste as an alternative to buffing compounds. Toothpaste works, but it takes multiple applications to fill in scratches. Get a non-gel toothpaste with baking soda, or mix a white toothpaste with 1 teaspoon (4 g) of baking soda. Then, buff it into the scratches with a microfiber cloth or a buffing pad.
    • Apply the toothpaste the same way you would apply cerium oxide or another buffing compound. Wipe off the excess paste when you're done.
    • Toothpaste has the advantage of being safer to use, but it isn't as immediately effective on most scratches.
  3. Step 3 Put on rubber gloves and a dust mask before using repair powder. 3 Put on rubber gloves and a dust mask before using repair powder. Cerium oxide powder is a pretty harsh irritant. Always put on the safety gear before opening the polish. Even if you’re careful, buffing pads tend to fling powder into the air, which will irritate your lungs.[7]
    • Wearing goggles is also a good idea. It eliminates the possibility of polish splashing into your eyes.
    • Work in a ventilated environment if possible. Open your garage door, for instance, to help disperse the powder. Keep close to an electrical outlet, though, since you need one for the buffing pad.
  4. Step 4 Pour some of the cerium oxide powder into a bowl. 4 Pour some of the cerium oxide powder into a bowl. Estimate how much of the powder you will need to fill in the scratches on your windshield. Start with a small amount, such as 2 tablespoons (14.75 g). This will usually be enough to repair a large portion of the windshield.[8]
    • Making the initial estimation is tricky since there are no hard and fast rules about how much polish to use. You are better off making more than you need or focusing on a single scratch at a time.
  5. Step 5 Mix the powder with warm water to form a paste. 5 Mix the powder with warm water to form a paste. As a rule, combine 1 part water for every 2 parts of powder you use. For example, use 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of water for every 2 tablespoons (14.75 g) of powder. Then, stir them together with a mixing stick to form a paste with the consistency of glue.[9]
    • Thin out the mixture by adding more water, or thicken it by adding more powder.
    • Don’t wait too long to apply the paste. If it starts to harden, spray it with more water.
  6. Step 6 Apply the polish with the buffing pad and an electric drill. 6 Apply the polish with the buffing pad and an electric drill. Attach the buffing pad to the end of the drill. Once the pad is secure, dip it into the paste or apply the paste directly to the scratched areas. Then, turn on the drill and run the edge of the pad back and forth along the scratches a few times. Keep the pad pressed firmly against the glass in order to grind the paste flat.[10]
    • Use only electric drills or polishing tools on the windshield. Cordless tools don’t generate enough power and may overheat. Use tools that run at 1300 rpm or higher.
    EXPERT TIP Bicycle Glass

    Bicycle Glass

    Glassblowing Experts Bicycle Glass Co. was founded in 2016 by David Royce and Michael Boyd, two professional glass experts. Bicycle Glass is primarily a lighting company, committed to quality, sustainability, and affordability. All Bicycle Glass products are made of high-quality, recycled glass and are hand-blown by a dedicated team of artisans. The studio is committed to reducing its carbon footprint by conserving energy in all of its production. Using renewable wind energy to offset all electricity usage, the studio is actively working toward the goal of carbon neutrality. Bicycle Glass believes that high-quality, handmade glass products should be within reach for everyone. Bicycle Glass Bicycle Glass Glassblowing Experts

    There are multiple ways to buff glass. The most basic way involves starting with rough diamond grits and gradually moving to smoother ones. You increase the grit sizes over time to achieve a buffed or polished edge. Finally, use a felt wheel and cerium oxide to remove scratches and achieve a smooth finish.

  7. Step 7 Wipe away the excess paste with a microfiber cloth. 7 Wipe away the excess paste with a microfiber cloth. Remove the excess paste before it has a chance to dry. The cloth will not reach the paste inside the scratches, so you do not need to wait before wiping down the windshield. Now take some time to admire the reflection in your scratch-free windshield.[11]
    • If you still see scratches in the windshield, chances are the paste didn’t get inside them. Spread more paste over them. Align the edge of the buffing pad over each scratch and grind them down again.
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Join the Discussion...

How can I fix scratches on my car at home? Tom Eisenberg Tom Eisenberg Auto Technician If you just have a tiny scratch in your car that's not a crazy color, an old trick is to fill it in with nail polish, just like you're painting your nails. You can also go to a dealership with your car, and they most likely will sell you touch-up paint for your car in its exact color. Slightly paint into the scratch a little at a time until you can't see it anymore. Then, use a clear coat nail polish to paint over it. Read More Hunter Rising Hunter Rising To fix scratches on your car, start by determining how deep the scratch goes. If it's a small surface-level scratch in the clear coat, it will be the easiest to fix on your own. Use a microfiber cloth to apply car polish in a circular motion over the scratch. Then, use a clear coat pen to apply a thin coat over the scratch.If your fingernail catches on the scratch and it has damaged the paint, you can still fix it at home. Clean the spot and apply some touch-up paint to the area. Wait for it to dry before sanding it lightly and buffing the spot with rubbing compound. Make sure to polish the spot when you're finished.If you see exposed metal, the scratch is deep into the primer. You may be able to sand, paint, and buff the scratch out on your own, but it might be best to leave the job to a professional if you don't have a lot of experience. Read More See all 3 Replies and Read Discussion

Expert Q&A

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  • Question How can I fix a scratched windshield myself? Chad Zani Chad Zani Auto Detailing Expert Chad Zani is an Auto Detailing Expert based in Los Angeles, California. He is the Director of Franchising at Detail Garage, an automotive detailing company with locations around the U.S. and Sweden. He and his team are auto detailing experts that offer detailing and car care services. Chad Zani Chad Zani Auto Detailing Expert Expert Answer Glass can be polished like anything else. Clean the glass first, then apply your polishing compound to the glass and buff it with a polishing pad. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 7 Helpful 28
  • Question Can this be done in direct sun? Community Answer Community Answer Preferably not, it works best in dry temperature environments of 45-50 degrees to 70 degrees moderate temperature. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 8 Helpful 2
  • Question Can I use this for very light scratches on windshield? Community Answer Community Answer Yes, this method is mainly useful for this purpose. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 1 Helpful 0
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

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Tips

  • Many times scratches happen because of dry or damaged windshield wipers. Replace your windshield wipers when they start to squeak or fray. Keep your car supplied with windshield washer fluid. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
  • When you notice cracks in your windshield, speak to a glass repair professional. They will either fill in the cracks or help you replace your windshield. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
  • Take care of chipped spots right away to prevent them from becoming significant damage. Get a kit with a resin applicator to fix these spots. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

  • Cerium oxide is an irritant. Always cover your skin and wear a dust mask when handling it. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
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Things You’ll Need

  • Windshield or glass cleaner
  • Water
  • Bucket
  • Microfiber cloths
  • Painter’s tape
  • Cerium oxide powder or alternative polish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Mixing stick
  • Buffing pad
  • Electric drill or polishing tool
  • Rubber gloves
  • Dust mask

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References

  1. ↑ https://ackodrive.com/car-guide/remove-scratches-from-car-windshield/
  2. ↑ Chris Parker. Founder, Parker Eco Pest Control. Expert Interview
  3. ↑ https://ackodrive.com/car-guide/remove-scratches-from-car-windshield/
  4. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DDDD1yrBC8&feature=youtu.be&t=207
  5. ↑ https://ackodrive.com/car-guide/remove-scratches-from-car-windshield/
  6. ↑ Chris Parker. Founder, Parker Eco Pest Control. Expert Interview
  7. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5508701/
  8. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GybSUfQyam8&feature=youtu.be&t=56
  9. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GybSUfQyam8&feature=youtu.be&t=70
More References (2)
  1. ↑ https://ackodrive.com/car-guide/remove-scratches-from-car-windshield/
  2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1B_puVXtxk&feature=youtu.be&t=187

About This Article

Chad Zani Co-authored by: Chad Zani Auto Detailing Expert This article was co-authored by Chad Zani. Chad Zani is an Auto Detailing Expert based in Los Angeles, California. He is the Director of Franchising at Detail Garage, an automotive detailing company with locations around the U.S. and Sweden. He and his team are auto detailing experts that offer detailing and car care services. This article has been viewed 381,744 times. 5 votes - 100% Co-authors: 10 Updated: October 28, 2025 Views: 381,744 Categories: Car Window Repairs In other languages Spanish Arabic German Hindi Indonesian Dutch Portuguese Japanese
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Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Chad Zani Co-authored by: Chad Zani Auto Detailing Expert Co-authors: 10 Updated: October 28, 2025 Views: 381,744 100% of readers found this article helpful. 5 votes - 100% Click a star to add your vote Alex Roberts

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Oct 20, 2021

"It explained the process very well and comprehensively." Share yours!

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Tag » How To Remove Scratches From Windshield