What is a RDS
Written by: Vinnie van Rooij
RDS is an abbreviation for Random Deep Scratch. This refers to a scratch of which the origin is not directly clear or obvious, it is most often an isolated mark. RDS do not all have to be the same size or depth.
Where to find RDS
RDS can be found anywhere on the vehicle. Many surface imperfections are common in a way. For example, swirls are relatively common on vehicle paint surfaces. Marring and stone chips are also fairly common. In most of these cases the presence in 1 area will increase the likelihood of there being more. This is different with an RDS, these can be completely isolated, or surrounded by similar imperfections. They can be long, short, in a group or isolated. The origin of the RDS is usually not very obvious, which makes it harder to determine the level of correction needed.
Correction with a RDS
Correction can differ greatly with different RDS’. A certain RDS can be more shallow then another, requiring minimal correction needed. Other RDS can be very deep and long, requiring extensive polishing to correct. Most RDS require more polishing and/or cutting then marring, swirls or common surface imperfections.
Difference in RDS
Not every RDS has to have the same shape or size. Even if a certain mark is long and the other is very show, they can still both be random or deep. If something is an RDS, it can still be referred to with other names. Parking damage can be a RDS, just like “keying” damage.
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