Are you tired of seeing those unsightly scratches on your beloved Tesla? Do you feel like your car is losing its shine and luster? We know how frustrating it can be to see your Tesla’s paint damaged, and it’s even more frustrating when you’re not sure how to fix it. But don’t worry, you’re not alone. But first to answer your question; should you repair your Tesla scratch marks yourself?
Repairing Tesla scratches yourself can save money but it depends on the severity of the damage. Minor scratches can be repaired with touch-up paint, however, deep scratches or paint chips require professional repair for better resale value. Consider the cost, your skillset and the long-term effects before deciding whether to repair your Tesla scratches yourself.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the costs associated with Tesla scratch repair in 2023, and give you the inside scoop on whether or not you should do it yourself. With our expert tips and tricks, you’ll be able to keep your Tesla looking like new in no time. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to say goodbye to those pesky scratches once and for all!
How Much Does It Cost To Repair Scratches on a Tesla?
As with any car, the amount you will pay to fix scratches on your Tesla will vary depending on the severity and location of the scratches. The price shouldn’t differ from other car brands, so body shops will probably charge you their usual rate.
With that said, some Tesla owners have complained that body shops sometimes give them higher-than-usual quotes.
If you take your Tesla to a body shop, they can charge you as little as $150 for minor scratches and up to $2,500 for deep paint scratches. A complete scratch repair job typically costs around $3,500. The cost is so high because most body shops repaint the area surrounding the scratches.

If you’d like to find the best Tesla Tire Repair Kit Options, check out this article that I wrote.

You Don’t Always Need a Body Shop
With that said, a body shop may not always be necessary, as there is a quicker and cheaper option for repairing scratches, and it comes in the form of paintless dent repair (PDR.)
Paintless dent repair can restore a vehicle to factory-like condition more quickly and at a lower cost compared to a regular scratch repair job. The only limit it has is if the paint is chipped or cracked.
Since PDR doesn’t require re-painting, the cost is much lower (around $500 for average scratches), and it takes far less time to complete (often it can be done within a day.)
Categories: | Full Paint Job | Paintless Dent Repair | Paint Repair Kit |
Price | $1,000 to $3,500 | Around $500 | $60 |
Time to fix | 2-4 days | 1-2 days | A few hours |
Effectiveness | Can fix almost any scratch or dent | Can fix minor-medium scratches but may leave paint somewhat faded | Can only fix minor scratches |
What happens during a paintless dent repair is a long session of buffing the area surrounding the scratch or dent to redistribute the paint. The process will close off the scratches and make the damage invisible to the naked eye.
The affected areas may not be as shiny as they used to be, but you can fix it by ceramic coating your entire Tesla, which is good to do anyway.

Frequently Asked Questions
What Factors Affect the Cost of Tesla Scratch Repairs?
The cost of repairing scratches on a Tesla depends on how deep the scratches are and what repair method is used. Different repair shops may also charge you different prices based on their fees.
Naturally, if the scratches are minor, it would cost far less to repair them. A few tiny scratches will usually cost less than $500, while a handful of severe scratches or dents can cost three or more times more.
The scratch repair method used for fixing your Tesla is also very important. A full re-paint to repair all scratches can cost up to $3,500. If you decide to go for a paintless repair, it would be much cheaper, but that isn’t always possible if the damage is too severe.
Can I Use a Tesla Paint Repair Kit?
If you are dealing with particularly minor scratches, Tesla’s Paint Repair Kit that you can buy online for $60 may be all you need to get your car back looking like new.
The kit includes a 0.5 oz (14.17 gram) bottle of OEM paint. You can select your paint color from a drop-down menu and choose the one that matches your Tesla. It’s very simple to use and customers are surprised at how quickly and effectively it can hide scratches.
To address the scratches, you would apply the paint and the blending solution included in the kit to cover up all defects and achieve a smooth finish.
Dealing with Minor Scratches on Your Own
When it comes to Tesla repairs, many drivers are unsure of what to do when they notice minor dents or scratches on their vehicles. While it may be tempting to head to a Tesla service center right away, there are actually a number of steps you can take to fix minor damages yourself.
One of the best options for dealing with minor scratches on your own is to use touch-up paint. This type of paint is specifically designed to match the color of your Tesla and can be used to fill in small paint chips or clear coat scratches. The average cost of touch-up paint is typically around $60, making it a relatively affordable option for dealing with minor damages.
If you’re a first-time user, it’s always best to be well-informed about the repair process. Before you start, it’s important to determine the severity of the scratch and the type of damage. For example, paint damage caused by a collision will be different from paint damage caused by a curb rash. The best way to determine the extent of the damage is by visiting a Tesla service center or mobile service.
When dealing with minor scuffs or scratches, it’s important to remember that the cost of repairs can vary depending on the severity of the damage. For example, if you have deep scratches or extensive damages, the cost of repairs will be higher than if you only have minor scuffs or scratches.
Another option for dealing with minor scratches is to use a car scratch repair kit. These kits typically include everything you need to repair minor damages, including paint, primer, and instructions. You can typically purchase a car scratch repair kit at an auto body shop or online for around $60.
If you’re not comfortable taking the DIY route, you can always take your Tesla to a traditional body shop or a Tesla wheel repair specialist. These professionals have years of experience repairing cars and will be able to give you an accurate estimate of the total cost of repairs.
In the long run, it’s always best to make an informed decision about which option is best for you. Whether you choose to repair your Tesla yourself or take it to a professional, it’s important to remember that the key to keeping your car looking great is to catch minor damages early and address them promptly.
Tesla Dent Repair: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to Tesla repairs, one of the most common types of damage is dents. Dents can happen for a variety of reasons, such as car parks, collisions, or even just being bumped by another car.
The best way to determine the extent of the damage is by visiting a Tesla service center or mobile service. They will be able to give you an accurate estimate of the total cost of repairs and can advise you on the best option for your situation.
If the damage is minor, you may be able to use paintless dent removal (PDR) to fix the problem. PDR is a quick, cost-effective way to repair dents without the need for repainting. The process involves carefully massaging the dented area to reshape it, and then using a special tool to smooth out the surface.
Another option for dealing with dents is to use a traditional body shop. These professionals have years of experience repairing cars and will be able to give you an accurate estimate of the total cost of repairs.
If you’re not comfortable taking the DIY route, you can always take your Tesla to a traditional body shop or a Tesla dent repair specialist. These professionals have years of experience repairing cars and will be able to give you an accurate estimate of the total cost of repairs.
The cost of repairs will vary depending on the severity of the damage, the type of damage, and the bodywork required. For example, if the dent is small and located in a less visible area, the cost will be lower than if the dent is larger and located on a prominent body panel. Additionally, if the dent is accompanied by paint chips or scratches, the cost will be higher as the entire area will need to be repainted.
When it comes to Tesla dent repair, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the costs involved. Many auto body repair shops offer transparent pricing, so you can make an informed decision about the best way to proceed.
It’s also important to consider the long-term effects of the repair. While a quick fix may be less expensive in the short term, it may not have the same resale value as a professional repair. Additionally, if the repair is not done properly, it may cause further damage to the car’s paint in the long run.
In some cases, your insurance policy may cover the cost of repairs. Be sure to check with your insurance company to see if the damage is covered under your policy. If it is, you may be able to have the repair work done at a lower cost or even for free.
Overall, it’s important to take the time to consider all options when dealing with Tesla dent repair. Whether you choose to repair your Tesla yourself or take it to a professional, it’s important to remember that the key to keeping your car looking great is to catch minor damages early and address them promptly.
Can I use a Tesla Paint Repair Kit on deep scratches?
Tesla Paint Repair Kits are only suitable for minor scratches. For deeper scratches, it is recommended to seek professional repair to ensure proper results.
Is it necessary to repaint the entire car after repairing scratches?
It is not necessary to repaint the entire car after repairing scratches. However, if the scratches are deep or located in a visible area, the surrounding area may need to be repainted to match the rest of the car’s paint.
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