Microfiber towels are designed to be gentle on car surfaces and are widely recommended for cleaning, drying, and polishing cars because they generally do not scratch paint.

However, there are certain conditions under which they could potentially cause scratches:

1. Quality of the Towel: Not all microfiber towels are created equal. High-quality microfiber towels have a higher density of fibers and are softer, making them safer for use on car paint. Lower quality towels with fewer fibers and possibly coarser textures can increase the risk of scratching.

2. Cleanliness of the Towel: A microfiber towel can scratch the paint if it picks up dirt, debris, or particles from previous uses or from the ground. Always ensure the towels are clean before use and try not to drop them where they can pick up grit.

3. Usage Technique: When using microfiber towels, it’s important to avoid pressing too hard. Let the softness and properties of the microfiber do the work. Also, be sure to fold the towel to expose clean surfaces as you work, and frequently shake out any trapped dirt.

4. Condition of the Surface: If the surface of the car is heavily soiled, even a clean microfiber towel can drag the dirt across the paint, causing scratches. It’s crucial to wash the car thoroughly with water to remove larger particles before wiping with a microfiber towel.

5. Type of Microfiber: Microfiber towels come in different types based on their purpose, such as drying, buffing, or general cleaning. Towels meant for drying and buffing are usually plusher and designed to be extra gentle on paint, whereas general cleaning microfiber towels might not be as soft.

Tips to Prevent Scratching with Microfiber Towels

• Wash New Towels Before Use: Sometimes new towels can have leftover chemicals or loose fibers from manufacturing, so it's a good practice to wash them before the first use.
• Use High-Quality Microfiber Towels: Look for towels with at least a 70/30 or 80/20 blend of polyester to polyamide. These have finer fibers and are softer and more absorbent.
• Keep Them Clean: Wash your microfiber towels separately from other laundry to prevent contamination with lint or coarser fabrics. Use a gentle, bleach-free detergent and skip the fabric softener, as it can clog the fibers of the towel.
• Proper Storage: Store clean microfiber towels in a clean, dry place to prevent them from picking up debris that could scratch the paint.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively use microfiber towels on your car without scratching the paint, ensuring your vehicle stays looking its best.