Trim scratches removal question

[Jan000]

I have a 2015 SLK with brushed aluminium interior trim that has some light scratches on it. What is the best way to remove them?

[996TT02]

If the metal is scratched, it's impossible to remove them. Any attempt will remove the "brushing" and make them look 10 times worse, with a shiny smooth patch. Theoretically the piece would need to be re-brush finished which as far as I am aware is an industrial process that can not be replicated at home.

[InitialDave]

Depends on the type of brushing, and whether the original finish was coated with something as well.

The right grade of scotchbrite pad will often let you get pretty close to a given finish on brushed metal, and if it's close enough, doing the whole trim piece will likely mean it doesn't stand out enough from the others to be picked up on.

Though if it's just a trim piece, a good used one might not be a huge amount of money.

[jakesmith]

Are you sure it’s metal- it may well be in an SLK but many wood / metal / carbon finishes in cars are actually hydro dipped plastic and on a small piece you’re looking at £30 or so to re dip

If not I’d look on eBay for a replacement rather than try to refinish it if you do t know what you’re doing