Does Car Polishing Affect the Paint?
3 Answers
Car polishing does affect the paint. Polishing refers to the processing method that uses mechanical, chemical, or electrochemical actions to reduce the surface roughness of a workpiece, thereby obtaining a bright and smooth surface. Polishing involves the modification of the workpiece surface using polishing tools, abrasive particles, or other polishing media. The steps for polishing are as follows: 1. Wash the entire vehicle: Use a paint cleaner with strong degreasing power to clean the entire vehicle, avoiding any particles or dust that may cause new scratches during the grinding process; 2. Sand with water sandpaper: For surfaces with defects such as coarse particles, fine sandpaper marks, or flow marks, gently sand until smooth; 3. Coarse and fine grinding: Use a mechanical grinder with coarse grinding paste for grinding; 4. Perform mechanical polishing with a polishing machine; 5. Manual polishing: Use cotton yarn dipped in polishing wax to wipe all polished areas, then use dry cotton yarn to remove any excess polishing wax.
As an enthusiast of car detailing, I believe polishing has a tremendous impact on car paint: it miraculously removes fine scratches and oxidation layers, restoring the paint's glossy shine and making it as dazzling as a new car. Essentially, polishing involves sanding the surface to eliminate stains and defects, thereby enhancing protection: it improves the paint's UV resistance and dirt-repellent properties. However, the key is not to overdo it, as excessive high-frequency polishing can wear down the clear coat, thinning the paint and making it more vulnerable. I recommend polishing no more than once a year, using high-quality polishing compounds and soft cloth tools. For DIY polishing, apply gentle pressure and avoid excessive force, then immediately wax the surface to replenish the protective layer. Regular treatment like this can extend the paint's lifespan and prevent rust issues.
As a detail-oriented car owner, polishing indeed has a dual impact on the paint: the benefit is its immediate enhancement of appearance, eliminating oxidation spots and dirt, giving the car a fresh look; the downside is that frequent or improper polishing wears down the protective layer, such as thinning the clear coat, making it more susceptible to scratches in the future. From my personal testing, overuse of a polisher left swirl marks, teaching me to limit it to when absolutely necessary—like once or twice a year. Choosing the right polish for your paint is crucial, paired with a buffing pad to minimize damage. Applying a ceramic coating post-polish is a smart move, locking in protection for the renewed surface. In short, it's beneficial for rejuvenating aged paint but requires careful balance to maintain paint health.
