A time-consuming job, but worth it: polishing the car. We explain when the best time for polishing is and how to go about it.
For those who love their car, this will be a task that will be accomplished with enthusiasm. But even for those who do not want to make the effort, it could be worth it. Because polishing the car has some advantages.
This is why car polishing is worthwhile
Of course, a polished paint looks chic and makes the car appear as good as new. And this is exactly the point: because the increases the material value of the vehicle and also prevents the formation of rust. Polishing removes the top layer of weathered paint and exposes a new layer. It removes small scratches where rust tends to form.
In addition, a freshly polished paint is less susceptible to bird droppings, which tend to etch into it. To ensure that the polishing of the vehicle works properly, you should observe the following tips.
Car polishing: is there a right time??
Just like in the household, spring is also a good time to polish your car. Because this is where the temperatures move the most between 18 and 25 degrees – so neither too cold, which damages the varnish, nor too warm, which makes the polish quickly become hard. In addition, after the winter, it is important to get rid of all the road salt, which strongly affects the paint.
When washing your car in winter, you should also remember that road salt attacks the paint even more due to the moisture. Therefore, you should be extremely careful when washing your car during the cold season – and follow these tips.
To prepare your car for polishing
Before you start using polish, make sure your car is clean to the pores. You can use a special paint cleaner – although these are not necessary for normal weathered paint – or you can go to the car wash. The professional washing is gentle on the paint and quite thorough.
If you prefer to wash the car yourself, do this not in the blazing sun – the sponge should also be regularly cleaned of dirt, so that grains of dirt cannot further scratch the paint of the car. Afterwards, shampoo the car and rinse it quickly with clean water so that no residue dries on the surface.
In case of stubborn polish a pretreatment with a high-pressure cleaner recommended. However, keep a distance of 30 centimeters so as not to damage the paint and do not aim at just one spot. Do not treat the tires with the cleaner either, as this could cause damage.
These are the tools you need for a car polish
Once you have thoroughly washed the car, it is finally time to polish it. For this you need
- A suitable polish,
- A polishing sponge and
- Soft microfiber cloths.
Finding the right polish is not that easy. Because the selection in hardware stores is large and the promises on the label even larger. The most expensive product is not always the best one. Therefore, it is best to inform yourself on the internet about current test results of car polishes.
Often you will also find combined products, that clean, polish and seal the paint. These are usually sufficient, unless it is an older vehicle. In this case, there are special polishes that can be used on weathered paint.
In addition, there are car polishes that contain nano particles that penetrate into the pores of the paint and thus guarantee a smooth surface. Or they contain hard wax, which seals the paint, makes water roll off and ensures that dirt can not adhere.
How to polish your car properly
When polishing a car, use a systematic approach: divide the car into two parts individual sections on – like roof, hood, doors – and treat them little by little. mask windows and plastic parts.
First apply the polish to the paint and "massage" it use the polishing sponge or pad and apply light pressure to the surface. You can stop as soon as the polish turns to dust or becomes milky.
Then you should immediately move in with a microfiber cloth and polish the paint against the previous polishing direction – before the polish is completely dry. Use the palm of your hand to check that the surface is smooth to the touch – then move on to the next stage.
How to handle a polishing machine
Working by hand is tiring and takes longer – so a polishing machine is often the solution. However, this requires a bit of practice to ensure a smooth surface. But it works better on a weathered paint.
This is how it worksThe polish is applied to the polishing head and then moistened with a little water so that it spreads evenly over the paint. In order to keep it cool, the polishing sponge must always be damp and covered with polish. Then run the machine at a medium speed in a circular motion over the surface of the paint, applying only light pressure. Also, do not spend too much time in one place and be careful around the edges.
