Ultimate compound - Overkill?

[NorthantsPete]

So my paintwork is in pretty good nick for the age of the car
Its a 2003 Toyota Avensis in Silver but its lacking that 'pop' from the Ultimate Polish alone that I got from previous UC applications on other cars.

Is it overkill to go to ultimate compound? Its only ever been clayed once by me recently and previous owner probably never waxed it but being japanese its done ok.

I bought some on impulse but now wondering if its needed - how do you know? Its not swirly or hazy, nor heavily oxidised although it must be if its not as shiney as a mirror (but partially).

Just concerned as its silver it wont ever pop like a coloured car, i dont want to go over the top

[NorthantsPete]

Re: Ultimate compound - Overkill?

This is a pic after the polish, you can see its pretty good but not really mirror-like

http://ibb.co/fOPtd5

[NorthantsPete]

Re: Ultimate compound - Overkill?

or should i get a refund and buy more UP for future washes

[BillyJack]

Re: Ultimate compound - Overkill?

You need to take a close look at the finish, either in the sunlight or under some strong lighting. The reflective qualities of the paint are dependent on it being free from any irregularities, such as minor scratches or swirl marks, all of which diffuse the light hindering reflection. It is silver, so you'll never get the same mirror-like reflections that you'd get with a darker color. However, silver also makes it harder to see imperfections. If the paint is smooth, with minimal texture and free of defects, there just may not be any more improvement to be gained from additional effort.

Bill

[Nick Winn]

Re: Ultimate compound - Overkill?

In my opinion the use of a dual action polisher machine with a cleaner/polish product can make big improvements in producing a high gloss for a light color, compared to applying by hand.