Neglected & scratched paintwork

[W124coupe]

Hi, my new-to-me Merc 1995 E320 Coupe has a badly neglected metallic dark blue paintwork (clearcoat) that is scored by many years of carwash brushes - lots of visible straight lines over the panels.

It also spent a year and a half parked up outside while the previous owner was ill (not washed at all during that time).

I have tried cleaner wax and effort(!) and although the paint is brighter and a lot of dirt came away, the scratches plus rough surface remain.

Can I fix this by hand (if so, what products and sequence) or do I need to get access to a buffer (again, if so, what kit, products and sequence)?

Trying to make the best of the car as it has no rust and is mechanically great - just looks old and dull!

Also, the wheels show some corrosio through the coating and lots of black specs which wheel cleaner so far will not touch - thinking of getting these stripped and re-finished - unless there is another way??

Thanks,

Steve

[Teak]

I think you will need at least a DA like the G100 to fix the damage considering how hard older MB paint can be. A rotary is probably preferred for the cutting steps.

Do you have any pictures which show the damage and vehicle?



Teak

[W124coupe]

Here's a shot of the hood (bonnet to me!)

[W124coupe]

Here goes again (smaller)

[scarface_]

Those look like light scratches. Have you tried ScratchX? They don't look deep so ScratchX should be able to able to remove them.Here is a few links on how to use it...

How to remove defects with ScratchX by hand


How to remove swirls by hand

Hope this helps

[W124coupe]

Thanks for that - will give it a go.

Now I understand why people buy the bufffers - this will take hours by hand!

[TrufflePig]

people buy DA because it speeds up the applying and removing of polishes and waxes. not only that, it is easy to use, or easyenough to use and creates amazing results.

the problem with your car though is from my understanding, and note i'm only a rookie, if you use SCRATCH X, this product has to be applied by hand and removed by hand.

goodluck with everything