Polishing

How to tell if my car needs polishing 

Published on May 10th, 2024

Maintaining your vehicle goes beyond just mechanical care. The aesthetics of your car also play a crucial role in preserving and enhancing it. 

One of the most important aspects of automotive aesthetics is polishing. But how do you know when your car needs polishing

This article will guide you through the process of identifying when your vehicle might need polishing.

What is Automotive Polishing?

Car polishing is a meticulous process that involves removing a thin layer from the surface of your car’s paintwork to eliminate scratches and imperfections, revealing a fresh, shiny layer underneath.

This process not only improves the appearance of your car, but also protects the paintwork and increases the longevity of the vehicle.

When vehicle polishing is necessary

Identifying when your vehicle needs polishing is an essential skill for any car owner. 

If you notice that your car’s paintwork is starting to look dull or faded, or if there are small scratches and marks on the surface, it may be time for a polish.

Regularly polishing your car can help keep it looking shiny and new.

Types of Automotive Polishing

There are several types of car polish, each suitable for different situations and needs. 

Here are the main types of car polish and a detailed description of each:

  1. Manual waxing: This is the most traditional and economical method of car polishing. It can be done in the garage at home and is suitable for those who usually take care of their car at weekends. However, as it is a simpler method, its focus is on eliminating light scratches on the paintwork. 
  2. Commercial polish: This type of car polish is recommended for cars that have stains, light scratches and sunburn on their paintwork. 

It can also be applied to pieces that have been painted more than once or have lost their shine.

  1. Technical Polishing: This is a more refined method of automotive polishing. Technical polishing is divided into three parts: cutting, removing scratches and blemishes, and leveling the paintwork. It is a service that seeks to resolve as many scratches as possible in the paintwork, leaving it impeccable. 

Each type of polish has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of polish depends on the specific needs of your vehicle and the current condition of the paintwork. 

It is always recommended to seek professional advice when choosing the type of polish for your vehicle.

How car polishing is done

Car polishing is a meticulous process that involves several steps to ensure that your car’s paintwork is restored to its original shine. 

Check out the detailed steps on how a car polish is done:

  1. Washing: Before anything else, the surface of the vehicle must be washed. This helps to remove any dirt or debris that could scratch the paintwork during the polishing process.
  1. Paint analysis: After washing, it is important to analyze the condition of the vehicle’s paintwork. This will help determine the extent of the polishing required.
  1. Cutting: Cutting is the first stage of car polishing. It involves removing a thin layer of the car’s paint surface to eliminate scratches and imperfections.
  1. Refinishing: After cutting, the next step is refinishing. This stage involves removing blemishes and preparing the paintwork for the final polishing stage.
  1. Polishing: The final stage of automotive polishing is polishing. During this stage, a new layer of varnish is applied, enhancing the shine of the paintwork.
  2. Finishing: After polishing, the vehicle is cleaned and the paintwork is inspected to ensure that the polishing has been successful.

Care after a car polish

After polishing, it is important to avoid intensive washing for a period to allow the polish layer to set properly. 

It is also recommended to use suitable, gentle cleaning products that will not damage the paintwork.

In addition to regular maintenance, store your car indoors and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.

These simple precautions help to keep the paintwork protected and looking new for longer.

Now that you know when to identify when your vehicle needs polishing and what types of procedures exist, you can ensure that your car always looks as good as the day you bought it. 

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