New To Polishing - Don't want to mess things up

[silicuda]

Hi There
New to the forums, and polishing to get rid of scratches/swirl marks.

I watched a ton of how to videos.

Already know step #1 wash car, step #2 clay to get rid of other contaminants step #3 polish, if the polish doesnt get rid of the scratch then use a compound, and then polish it out ..

also not to do this in sun light, rather in a garage, when the engine is cool and so are the panels..

now the only question is, am i missing something? i dont want to ruin my paint job

Thanks

[waxyboard]

Re: New To Polishing - Don't want to mess things up

I am right there with you being new. I bought a random oribital, and was very scared to use it on my new BLACK accord! '

But you got it right, wash with mcguiares soap, it's good stuff (not dishwasher detergent, etc), dry it with only microfiber. Don't use anything else, or it will scratch the paint. I alrady wrote on here how I put serious scratches in my paint from not knowing any better and using a paper towel.

Detail spray and clay, then clean it all off. Knead the clay often to renew it, no pressure is needed.

Then here is where it got a little confusing. At this point you're ready to correct scratches, swirls, or polish. I went with swirlX because I got the car from the dealer with fine scratches (thanks a-holes). This lightened the scratches up, didn't remove them, but like you I didn't want to ruin anything so I didn't go further and try a more aggressive compound like scratchx with my machine.

Then, I used the ultimate polish, which really brought out a nice shine and made the surface super smooth and ready for waxing.

When using the products make sure you work it in until it turns clear and greasy.

Then wax, dry, and done! Waxing to me is the most fun part. It is easy to apply, and it is satisfying to remove it (microfiber!) gently and get that super smooth feel. Very fun, but I'm sure it will turn into a chore once the newness of learning this stuff wears off