I somehow had a double mind while creating this post because mechanics or paint dealers may tag me as “a bad person” for sharing for free what they are using to collect money from their customers. But then, on another thought, this post will be helpful to the mechanics too as I will be sharing deep secrets they may not know about.
One hot afternoon, I looked out through my balcony and discovered that my car was not shining the way it used to. I could not tell if it was because of the Nigerian sun or the harmattan dust, all I knew was that my car paint had faded.
I consulted my mechanic friends, did some research, and viola, I saw what was missing- polishing! I learned how to polish my car’s paint myself and since then, I have not complained of faded paint again.
In a country with harsh weather conditions, there is every need to polish your car’s paint from time to time to maintain its color. The sweet thing about this is that you don’t have to be a professional to do it. Just have the right tools, the right knowledge, and some patience.
I will through this article teach you all the steps you need to polish your car’s paint like a pro. If I were you, I would get my book and pen and jot down some things. Let’s get started already!
Why Polishing Matters for Car Paints
You may be thinking that polishing your car’s paint is just for the aesthetics, but it is more than that. It will help in protection as well.
Polishing your car’s paint regularly helps to remove some minor marks and scratches that are bound to happen due to traffic conditions and daily usage. It will also boost the vehicle’s resale value in case you want to sell it off, and many other things.
Maintaining your car paint is an investment worth making. Isn’t it?
Step-by-Step Guide to Polishing Your Car Paint
Here are the steps you can follow to ensure that your car is shining always. Read through with rapt attention.
1. Thorough Washing of the Car
This is the first step you have to take. Before you talk about polishing, the car must be free from dirt and grime first. Do not make the mistake of skipping this step as it can lead to dirt getting trapped under the polish. To wash your car properly, do the following;
· Make use of quality car shampoo: These common detergents we use have effects on the car paints. They strip away wax, and you may not notice it in the beginning till it is late. It is advisable to go for shampoo specialized for car wash.
· Wash in cool temperatures: If you wash your car under the sun where the soap dries before you come to rinse, you may want to stop that and start washing it under shade or maybe in the morning and evening when the temperatures are cooler.
· Rinse after washing: Please use enough water to rinse the surface after washing, and allow the car to dry completely.
2. Do a quick inspection of the paint surface
This is the second step to take after your car is cleaned. Check for all the minor damages that may have happened on the paint. It is necessary to spot them before you start polishing. Things to check out for are;
· Scratches: This can come from using external objects on the car. A typical example is children scratching the car with stones while playing.
· Swirl Marks: This one happens when there is an improper washing technique. They are the small scratches that occur when the techniques for washing are wrong.
· Oxidation: This can be due to much exposure to the sun thereby making the paint oxidize and look dull.
3. Selecting the Right Polish
Here, you will have to put on your thinking cap. Not all polish can withstand the harsh weather conditions in Nigeria. There are two types of car polish;
· The cutting polish: Has abrasives that help to remove a thin layer of the clear coat, thereby covering deep scratches and marks.
· The finishing polish: This one is used to shine and smoothen the car’s paint surface after applying the cutting polish.
Now you may ask, is there any polish you can recommend as regards to this? Yes, there is! Latico clear coat polish from Fidel Associates is designed to provide a lasting shine on your car paint. It does not only remove scratches but also gives long-lasting protection.
4. Apply The Polish
After you have chosen the right polish, the next step is to apply it. This can be done using a machine polisher or your hand.
If you are polishing by hand, get a foam applicator pad to apply the polish in a small circular motion. Work in sections to avoid drying before it is evenly distributed. Just pick a part, ensure even coverage, and then choose another part.
If you are using a machine polisher, apply a small amount of polish to the polishing pad. Start with a low speed to evenly spread the polish. Move the polishing pad in overlapping motions to obtain the best results.
5. Buff The Surface
It is not enough to polish the car and leave it, you have to buff off the polish in order to completely expose the shine. You use a microfiber towel to do this. Make sure it is soft to avoid scratching.
Gently apply pressure and work in circular motions for maximum results. Check for further leftover polish, and immediately buff it out to avoid streaks.
6. Apply Wax for Extra Protection
This is optional to do, but it is good if you do it. The wax coat helps seal the shine and protects the car paint from rain, sun, and dust. When applying the wax, use a foam applicator pad, and apply slowly so it is even distributed.
Remember that once the wax dries, you should use a microfiber towel to buff it off for a final glossy finish.
Conclusion
There is this special feeling that comes when you look out and see your car shining under the sun. Satisfaction is everything! Regular polishing of your car is what can give you that.
Latico clear coat polish distributed by Fidel Associates just like I said earlier is a perfect car polish for the Nigerian weather. It can withstand the intense sun and unforgiving rain seen in Nigeria.
Talk with Fidel Associates today to get your high-quality Latico clear coat polish delivered to your doorstep.
You got value, right? Let me know in the comment section.
