Is it okay not to polish after car painting?
3 Answers
It is not advisable to skip polishing after car painting. After painting, minor defects such as coarse particles and flow marks may appear on the paint surface. To address these imperfections, repair technicians typically use polishing techniques to refine and beautify the car's paint surface. Car painting involves applying a layer of paint to the car's surface to protect it. Types of car paint include standard paint, metallic paint, pearl paint, clear coat, and matte paint. The basic components of car paint are film-forming substances, pigments, solvents, and additives. Metallic paint, also known as metallic flake paint, is a popular type of automotive topcoat.
With years of experience in auto repair, I strongly advise against skipping polishing after painting. New paintwork always has minor imperfections like dust spots or orange peel texture. Polishing smooths the surface for better reflectivity, giving it a fresh, renewed appearance. Skipping polishing leaves the finish matte and rough to the touch, prone to water stains and discoloration over time, while reducing protective qualities. Polishing also seals the paint layer against UV aging, extending its lifespan and significantly boosting resale value. DIY polishing is time-consuming, requires expensive tools, and is error-prone. Though professional polishing costs money, it's worth it. Saving on this step now may lead to costlier repairs later. Your car's paint is its face – proper polishing ensures peace of mind.
I did a DIY car repair and skipped polishing after painting to save money. The surface has a slight texture and isn't as shiny, but I saved a few hundred bucks in labor costs. For an old car, it's not a big issue—just lower gloss and more noticeable water bead marks after rain, but regular waxing helps. Polishing tools aren't cheap, and beginners might scratch the paint. If you're on a tight budget, skipping it is an option, but be prepared for the paint to look dirtier and older sooner. Fresh paint without treatment will highlight imperfections, affecting aesthetics, though it's not critical. If the paint job is high-quality with few flaws, skipping polishing is acceptable—just keep up with maintenance.
