Shine Problems and Solutions

  • Hazy or Scratched Finish on Dark Colors:
    • Cause: Excessive pressure applied with rubbing compound (cutting creme), which acts like 1500 grit sandpaper.
    • Solutions:
      • Apply an automotive polishing compound to match the original paint’s shine.
      • Consider professional power polishing at a local detail shop.
  • Poor or No Shine:
    • Causes and Solutions:
      1. Insufficient Clearcoat: If the clearcoat is too thin, polishing may affect the basecoat, which does not shine.
        • Solution: Apply additional clearcoat and re-compound the area.
      2. Incorrect Compound: Using polishing compound or heavy-duty rubbing compound can dull the finish.
        • Solution: Use a medium-duty rubbing compound; reapply clearcoat if necessary.
      3. Difficulty in Manual Compounding: Large areas might be challenging to compound by hand.
        • Solution: Use a power buffer or hire a professional detail shop.
      4. Improper Cleaning Materials: Using paper, dirty, or gritty cloths can scratch the paint.
        • Solution: Use an old, clean T-shirt for buffing.
      5. Omission of Clearcoat: Occasionally, clearcoat may be forgotten, leading to no shine on the basecoat.
        • Solution: Apply clearcoat to achieve the desired gloss.
      6. Whitish Haze or Streaks: High humidity can affect the clearcoat application.
        • Solution: Wait for lower humidity (under 50%), scuff down the previous clearcoat, reapply the color coat, and then the clearcoat.
      7. Spider Veins in Paint: Caused by spraying too far away or in too hot conditions.
        • Solution: Apply paint closer to the surface and avoid painting in temperatures above 80°F.
  • Additional Care:
    • Post-Application: Allow the paint to cure for 30 days before applying a high-quality automotive wax to enhance protection and shine.
    • Removing Oxidation: Rubbing compound (cutting creme) is effective for eliminating oxidation from the vehicle’s finish.