You've heard the term, maybe had it done to your vehicle, but what is paint correction really? As a Ceramic Pro certified installer, we love the way Ceramic Pro explains the paint correction process and how it relates to the installation of ceramic coatings. We've highlighted parts of their recent blog relating to the paint correction process. If after readying this content, you have any questions about paint correction at American Dent Specialists or you know it is what your vehicle needs, give us a call.

Does this scenario ring a bell? You just spent an hour hand washing your car – using the most expensive car shampoo, soft Korean microfiber, and air drying the ride. You step back to enjoy that shiny paint finish and notice what looks like tiny spider webs in your car’s paint. Instantly a look of frustration appears on your face – as you realize paint correction or polishing your ride is the only solution.

What is Paint Correction?

Paint correction is the process of removing minor scratches and imperfections found in the vehicles clear coat. Using an electric polisher, a microfiber buffing pad, and a special cutting compound, the detailer or you will cut into the clear coat of a vehicle’s paint till the scratches are leveled or removed.

When completed correctly and taking your time – there is no need to stress. However, if you try to rush the job, it is possible to damage the clear coating past the point of repair. That all said, paint correcting a car’s paintjob is a critical step if you plan on applying a nano ceramic coating or paint protection film.

Paint correction can be broken down into multiple stages – based mainly on the damage to the clear coating.

Stage 1 Paint Correction

This one is self-explanatory. It’s a single step polishing job using a cutting compound (or the liquid polish) and a pad. The single stage paint correction is intended to remove small marring and swirl marks that are lightly removed.

Stage 2 Paint Correction

When the car’s paint has moderate or medium swirl marks and scratches that are embedded in the clear, stage 2 is the next progression. At this point, you’re going to use (2) different polishes and pad combinations. Typically – it starts by using a more abrasive polish first, then stepping down to a finer compound, to remove any light scratches left by the first step.

Stage 3 Paint Correction

If you get to this point – it’s a good idea to do some careful research and perhaps defer to a professional. This is a three-step program, where the car’s paintjob has heavy swirl marks, marring, or other defects. The first step involves using a heavy cutting compound, with a machine polisher, and polishing pad – to really dig into that paint damage. The second step progressively decreases the grit, and finally, a light polishing compound should smooth out the damage.

Is Polishing Needed Prior to Applying a Ceramic Coating?



It really depends on the condition of the car’s paint. When you apply a ceramic coating – regardless of the different formulation or application method, the coating’s job is to bond directly to the surface, harden, and provide a protective layer. When the coating hardens, it is transparent – making it act like glass. This amplifies the paint underneath.

So, a gloss finish will appear ‘more-glossy’ while a matte finish will provide more depth. Any tiny or hard to see scratches will be amplified or enhanced. Any swirl marks will stand out – not be covered up. This is one of the biggest myths about DIY ceramic coatings and other paint protection coats – that they fill scratches and improve the condition of paint.

Unfortunately, that’s only possible through paint correction. As such, if you have ANY imperfections in the vehicle’s paint surface, it’s highly recommended to have a professional detailer polish or buff the paint as part of the prep work.