Is It Normal for a New Car to Have Polishing Marks?
2 Answers
It is normal for a new car to have polishing marks. Car Polishing: Car polishing is a step in the car detailing process, performed before waxing, sealing, or coating to prepare the car's surface. Polishing is essential before sealing or coating because only a finely polished car can achieve a mirror-like finish. This is a necessary step in the sealing process. Without proper polishing, the paint surface will be uneven, and the sealant will not last long, failing to provide long-term adhesion, making it no different from regular waxing. Of course, depending on the condition of the paint, not all three polishing steps may be required. For new cars, often a single-step restoration is sufficient. However, cars that have undergone coarse polishing must be polished with medium-grade polish, and those polished with medium-grade polish must undergo fine-grade restoration. Protecting the Paint: Waxing and sealing do not harm the car's paint; instead, they protect it better. However, the misconception that these processes damage the paint arises because many irresponsible car detailing shops frequently polish the paint during waxing and sealing to achieve an immediate glossy effect. Over time, this can thin the paint and even risk polishing through it.
When I bought the car, there were slight polishing marks on the new vehicle. At first, I was quite concerned, but after learning more, I realized this is usually due to minor scratches on the paint during transportation or storage, which the dealer polishes to fix before delivery. However, noticeable marks indicate subpar polishing work. Honestly, as a buyer, a new car should be flawless. While minor imperfections are common, I still recommend bringing a handheld light to thoroughly inspect before taking delivery, especially when checking the reflection angles. If you find deeper scratches or large areas with uneven gloss, it might involve hidden damage, and you should immediately request compensation or a replacement from the dealer. Staying calm and handling the situation properly is crucial—after all, you’ve spent a lot of money and deserve to protect your rights.
