While washing the car yesterday my wife wanted to get the bug guts off the front bumper and decided to use the green scrubby side of the sponge.:eek1 Needless to say she got the bug guts off, but ruined the clear coat. None of the scratches are deep fortunately and it looks like something that will "buff right out" as they say. I went to the auto parts store and found several different types of rubbing and cutting compounds. I've never used any before. Where should I start? What would you recommend? Also, I have an random orbital buffer that I can use. Thanks!
I would not use rubbing compound on clear coat, you will just have more of the same. Mothers scratch remover won't do anymore harm. The best stuff I have used is Novus #2 plastic scratch removal. Lots of elbow grease required. I have not used a buffer. http://www.webstaurantstore.com/nov...ogleShopping&gclid=CKLHwbOc5a8CFXQeQgodITL22A
a regular buffing wheel would take the scratches right off with a rubbing or polish compound, a orbital buffer i would try a polish but its hard to say if it will take out the scratches. rubbing by hand i dont think would work. you can try though. i buff cars at work all the time so i always use a regular buffing wheel for everything.
Always start with the least invasive solution and work up from there. Some high grade polish on a microfiber towel is the first thing to try if the scratches are truly just in the clear coat.
I've had good results with 3M products. Try this: http://www.autogeek.net/3m-scratch-removal-kit.html or this: http://www.autogeek.net/3m-paint-restoration-kit.html
There's a reason people don't use the magnetic bags, same reason I avoided them even though they are convenient-scratches! Couple nights ago I put a slight, 3in one in my tank courtesy of some sort of magnetized pebble. This in addition to the other 4 much smaller ones prompted me to action.Pearl the RS is a rider, but there are limits. Recalling good results w/ the 3M headlight restoration kit & since I needed another of those, I thought they might have something similar for paint; enter the Scratch Removal Kit. No pics,sorry, but as long as you are not through the clear coat it works wonders. Sand w/ 3000 grit, apply rubbing compound followed by scratch remover polish via a foam pad & drill, done! Thank you 3M; your "old reliable" blue tape sucks, but your kits are right on target.
Ever go to a car wash and see someone (usually female) using the brush to clean the paint?:eek1 I cringe everytime I see it.
www.autogeek.net the forums area....tons of pros there who will tell you exactly that you need to do.