Car Care Products

Categories

• Detailing Guides
• General Info
• Paint Problems
• Polish
• Surface Prep
• Wash & Maintain
• Wax
• Wheels & Tyres

Tips

Click on a tip to see the solution.

01. Buffers - Rotary v Orbital?

An orbital buffer is specially designed to run in an eccentric circular motion. This safe, random pattern doesn’t apply torque to the surface, and assures the buffer never concentrates its energy in one spot, unlike your hand or a regular rotary buffer. If you use a rotary buffer and are not skilled in its use, you can easily apply too much pressure to the paint, use the wrong pad or technique and burn right through it, this could then require a new paint job. For the similar reasons stay away from attachments that fit onto power drills for buffing your paint. Good results can also be achieved be old fashioned elbow grease!

02. Can I hide fine scratches in my paint?

The visible impact of fine scratches can be significantly improved with light polish. Prior to this we would recommend a surface preparation step in order to actually remove the fine scratches, partially or completely. So perhaps a clay bar first then a medium grade polish. If your paint is also oxidised or faded, this will dramatically revive colour whilst also removing fine scratches and swirls. However if you can catch your fingernail on a scratch, it’s deep and we would recommend you see a professional detailer or body shop for help.

03. Does polish need to dry?

Unlike wax, polish does not need to dry. Thoroughly work it into the surface one section at a time, then immediately remove the excess before beginning the next section.

04. Should I prep my paint before polishing?

You should always evaluate the condition of your finish prior to polishing. Just because your paint has no major scratches or other obvious signs of damage doesn’t mean its surfaces are as flawlessly smooth as when they were new. There are many kinds of subtle surface defects that, if not corrected, can prevent the polish from restoring that perfect gloss. Run your finger tips over the paint and if it is smooth and glass like, then polish away. If it is textured or rough you should ‘prep’ your paint surface first.

05. What is the best way to apply polish?

Polish is different to wax and should be applied and removed when still ‘wet’. Therefore using a good applicator pad, work thoroughly into the surface of one panel or section. Again never polish in direct or strong sunlight and avoid very windy situations outside that could put dirt particles back on your car. When still ‘wet’ use a Microfibre or polishing cloth to take off and buff the paint to a shine. It is always recommended to apply a good wax after polishing your car.

06. What is the difference between a polish and a wax?

A polish is more like a paint conditioner that restores valuable oils to the paint, eliminates fine scratches and creates incredible high gloss not possible with waxes. An application of a pure polish should be followed by waxing to protect the shine and extend its life.

07. What’s the best method to take off polish or wax after application?

Professional detailers would generally use a high grade Microfibre Cloth. Do not buy those cheap ones from the Supermarket, they will scratch. Invest in some quality cloths and they can be washed several times and reused, they will also produce the best shine, with the least effort and the fewest swirls.