How much does a Tesla scratch repair cost?

Owning a Tesla comes with plenty of benefits, but when it comes to bodywork, even minor scratches can feel more expensive than in traditional cars.

Tesla paint finishes, aluminium panels, and the placement of advanced sensors all influence repair costs, which can range from £80 to £1,200+ for full panel respray.

Below, we break down Tesla scratch repair costs depending on the type of damage and severity.

How much does it cost to repair a scratch on a Tesla?

The cost of repairing a scratch on a Tesla in the UK typically ranges from £80 to over £1,200, and these costs largely depend on the depth of the damage, the panel affected, and the repair method needed.

Light surface scratches that only affect the clear coat are relatively inexpensive to fix, while deeper scratches that expose the primer or metal often require repainting, which increases costs significantly.

Panels with sensors or cameras, such as bumpers and doors, can also cost more to repair. However, you can use car repair finance to split the cost of any Tesla scratch repair into interest-free repayments.

Typical Tesla scratch repair costs by damage severity

Let’s break the Tesla scratch repair costs down even further.

Here are some general averages you can expect in 2026. Note that costs vary depending on the model (Model 3, Model Y, Model S, or Model X), paint colour, and local labour rates.

How long does Tesla scratch repair take?

As with any car damage, repair times depend on severity. Your garage will give you a personalised estimate, but general repair times take:

• Light SMART repairs: 1 to 3 hours

• Localised paint repairs: 1 day

• Full panel respray: 2 to 5 days

Remember that if sensors or cameras need recalibration, repair times can increase slightly.

Can you buff out a scratch on a Tesla?

Yes, but not always. Some scratches on a Tesla can be buffed out, but only if they’re shallow and limited to the clear coat.

Buffing removes a very thin layer of clear coat to reduce or eliminate surface marks. However, if the scratch catches your fingernail or exposes paint beneath the clear coat, buffing won’t be effective. DIY polishing also carries a risk of damaging Tesla’s relatively soft paint if done incorrectly.

For anything beyond light scuffs, professional repair is usually safer and more effective.

Why does my Tesla scratch so easily?

Many owners feel Teslas scratch more easily than other cars. This perception is often due to a combination of factors:

• Tesla paint finishes are relatively soft compared to some manufacturers

• Aluminium body panels mark more easily than steel

• Dark colours show scratches more clearly

• Urban driving and tight parking spaces increase minor contact

While Tesla paint meets industry standards, it can highlight imperfections more visibly, especially under direct light.

Does Tesla record scratches?

In contrast to popular belief, Teslas do not automatically “record scratches”, but Sentry Mode can capture footage if it’s enabled and the car detects a nearby threat or impact.

However, Sentry Mode may not activate for very light contact, such as a key scratch or brushing against the car. Camera angles can also limit what’s captured.

Footage can help with insurance claims in some cases, but it’s not guaranteed to record every incident.

Does Tesla Service fix scratches?

Tesla Service Centres generally do not handle cosmetic scratch repairs directly, unless the damage occurred during servicing or delivery.

Instead, Tesla typically refers owners to Tesla-approved body shops. These repairers meet Tesla’s standards for paint matching, aluminium repairs, and sensor calibration, but their pricing is often higher than that of independent SMART repair specialists.

Is Tesla scratch repair worth it?

In most cases, yes, especially for newer vehicles or leased cars.

Professional scratch repairs help maintain resale value, prevent corrosion on exposed metal, and keep the car looking its best.

Generally, minor repairs are relatively affordable when handled early, while delaying repairs can lead to more expensive paint damage later.

Can you drive a Tesla with scratches?

Yes, driving with cosmetic scratches is safe.

However, deep scratches that expose bare metal should be repaired promptly to prevent corrosion, particularly on aluminium panels where oxidation can spread and affect the car’s structure.

Final thoughts

Nothing is more frustrating than noticing a scratch on your car.

Tesla scratch repair costs vary widely, but understanding the type of damage makes it easier to choose the right repair approach. Light scratches can often be fixed affordably, while deeper damage may require professional repainting. Book early, and your Tesla will be fixed up in no time.

Split the cost with Bumper

Get your Tesla looking new again. You can use a car repair loan to split the cost of Tesla scratch repair into interest-free repayments.

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers.