Rubbing Compounds - Avoid Them If You Can!

The surface of your car will deteriorate over time, getting marks and scratches, swirl marks and oxidation. The second step in the four-step process of paint correction, heavy duty rubbing compound removes severe defects from the painted surface.

But beware! While using rubbing compound to restore your car's paint may be an effective remedy, it also removes some clear coat in the process. If it is done too many times, the clear coat will thin down to the point where it will no longer protect the car's paint. Cutting compound can lead to faster oxidation and the need to repaint sooner than necessary.

If your car has only moderate to minor scratches and is not oxidizing, we recommend starting with a less aggressive approach. Often, a medium or fine polish will sufficiently remove the scratches on your car without removing nearly as much clear coat. It can also be quite effective on water spots.

When applying the compound (or polish) use a random orbital polisher. The cutting power of a rotary buffer is usually too aggressive. Working by hand, apply the compound with an applicator and remove the excess with a clean, unused microfiber towel.