Does Car Polishing Damage the Paint?

[OValerie]

Car polishing does cause a certain degree of damage to the paint surface. The steps for car polishing and the criteria for determining whether polishing is needed are as follows: Steps for Car Polishing: Wash the entire vehicle, sand with water sandpaper, use a mechanical grinder (electric or pneumatic) with coarse polishing compound to rough grind the marks left by the sandpaper, then apply polishing compound for fine polishing, use a mechanical polisher with a mirror-finish treatment agent to remove swirl marks left by the coarse polishing compound, achieving a mirror-finish effect on the paint film, and finally perform manual polishing. Criteria for Car Polishing: Polishing is necessary for vehicles used between 4 to 5 years, or when there are multiple minor scratches on the car's paint surface, in which case the scratched areas can be polished.

[SanLondon]

As someone who frequently handles car detailing, I've witnessed both the miracles and issues brought by polishing. Polishing involves using abrasives to grind the car's paint surface, removing scratches and oxidation layers to make the car look shiny and new. However, improper operation, such as using overly coarse abrasives or polishing too frequently, can indeed thin the protective layer of the paint, making it more prone to fading, rusting, or aging. When I polish for clients, I always test a small area first to ensure the base coat isn't damaged, then use gentle products to buff slowly. After polishing, waxing or sealing is essential to protect the paint and prolong the effect. Remember, professional shops have the experience to control the risk of damage; DIY attempts are prone to errors, especially for beginners who shouldn't rush. Regular paint maintenance, such as a check-up every six months, can reduce the need for polishing and keep the car healthy.

[OXavier]

Last time I polished my car, the paint regained its shine remarkably well, and my friends all complimented it for looking like new. However, I later learned that polishing carries potential risks: if the technician uses rough techniques or low-quality products, it can wear down the top layer of the paint, making it more vulnerable to UV damage. Now, I only polish when there are severe scratches or oxidation, avoiding doing it annually. After consulting experts, they advised that choosing a reputable shop is key—don’t go for cheap roadside stalls. After polishing, I make it a habit to apply a layer of protective wax, which helps buffer damage and prolong the glossy effect. Using a soft cloth during regular car washes also reduces friction on the paint, preventing the need for premature polishing.

[VanArthur]

Polishing can indeed cause damage to car paint, especially when too much clear coat is removed during the process, thinning the paint and affecting long-term durability. From a maintenance perspective, I recommend polishing only when necessary, such as when the paint is severely oxidized or has obvious imperfections. Using eco-friendly polishing products can reduce chemical pollution while protecting the paint's health. Waxing after polishing is essential, as it forms a barrier to prevent further damage. Remember, excessive polishing not only wastes resources but also accelerates paint aging, so controlling frequency is crucial.