Paint Correction Steps

Paint correction is an industry term and is the process of restoring or rejuvenating automotive paint through machine polishing away surface imperfections. These imperfections include swirls, acid rain, over-spray, water spots, tree sap, and micro-scratches.

The goal of paint correcting is to create an even layer, or clean canvas, on which ceramic coating can be applied for maximum results. Without paint correction, blemishes and scratches are sealed under the coating and highlighted after the fact. There are three stages of paint correction depending on necessity. 

Stage 1 is reserved for vehicles with no visible blemishes or light damage. It involves a machine polish using one type of finishing polish and one finishing pad to create a clean surface to begin the ceramic coating application. 

Stage 2 is recommended for vehicles with visible swirl marks and light scratch marks. This service uses two different polish and pad combinations. The first step uses a more abrasive polishing compound and pad to remove the imperfections. Afterward, a finishing polish refines the paint and removes any marring or holograms left over by the first step.

Stage 3 helps vehicles with heavy swirl marks, water spots, and other surface paint defects. This process involves multiple polish and pad combinations. It starts with a cutting compound using a heavy cutting pad to remove deep-set swirl marks and etching. Then a cutting polish and high gloss polish are used in the second step to further remove swirl marks while refining the paintwork. Last step is applying the ceramic coating to a properly prepped surface. 

It's important to note that modern advances in paint correcting products like chemical compounds have streamlined the common 3 stage rule. An Extreme Client Advisor will typically assess a vehicle's paint quality on an individual basis and provide the customer with a detailed proposal.