Detailing Guide

What Paint Correction Can and Cannot Remove

Machine polishing removes a controlled amount of clear coat to level defects. If the defect is shallower than the clear coat you can safely remove, it disappears. If not, it does not.

That single principle explains every answer below.

Removes completely

  • Swirl marks and wash marring
  • Light oxidation and dullness
  • Buffer trails and holograms from previous polishing
  • Light water spot deposits and mild etching
  • Surface transfer marks from another vehicle

Improves only, or not at all

Scratches that catch a fingernail have breached the clear coat and can only be made less visible. Anything showing primer or bare metal needs refinishing. Peeling or delaminating clear coat cannot be polished — polishing accelerates its failure.

Rock chips, dents and cracked trim are body and paint repair, not detailing.

Frequently asked questions

How do I test a scratch myself?

Run a fingernail lightly across it. If it catches, it is too deep to remove safely.

Can correction be done on a wrapped car?

No. Vinyl wrap cannot be polished like clear coat.

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