[Bethelism]

I won a "custom detail" job through my company's sales incentive program. I generally take care of my own detailing, but thought, hey, why not. It looked pretty good when it was finished, and I thought nothing more of it.

I went to do my version of a "winterizing" detail this past weekend, and went over my car with a critical eye. Much to my dismay, I have discovered very fine scratches on the spoiler, hood and trunk lid. It looks as if the "detailer" used an abrasive on my paintjob!!

The scratches are very faint, and probably not even through the clear coat. What is my best option for polishing this out? I was thinking polishing compound, then a couple coats of wax.

Suggestions?

[FYouGitive]

If by "polishing compound" you mean that duPont stuff that comes in a flat can, I think it's poison for clearcoats.

All the major manufacturers of car care products offer "scratch-removal" versions of polishes and cleaners. I have used Meguiar's "Scratch-X" to good effect. It'll be worthwhile to go to their Web site and see what they have. Several grades of abrasiveness, one of which might suit your circumstance.
meguiars.com: Car Care Video Guide

Also you might go to the Meguiar Forums, where very knowledgeable, experienced, and generous people are quick to answer any questions.
Meguiar's Online

[04KenneBellGT]

Yea there are all kinds of scratch remover, but i bet with a good wax job or at the very most a buff job those scratches will be gone.

[JudisStang]

I agree... a good detail from you and they'll be gone... I would love to win something like that... NOT... LOL I'd be in a state of panic all day, not worth it to me... I'd rather do it myself... Sorry you had this happen, but I think it's a pretty simple remedy... will just take you a day or two to get back on track...

I would start over....
Strip it with dawn dish soap...
Polish it
Wax it (a few layers)
seal it

You can contact Justin at obsessive detail.... he'll answer any questions you might have and personally recommend products for you paint job and problem. It would be worth it to shoot him an email or give him a ring.

You should be as good as new.... let us know what you ended up doing!!

[GuitarstarX7]

maybe try the 3m swirl mark remover. they have 2 kinds (light and dark cars)

[jbstangGT]

I've had good results from the Meguiar's Scratch-X as well.