All about
Paint correction
What is Paint Correction?
Paint correction is a widely used term for polishing imperfections, swirl marks and scratches out of clear coat and automotive paint jobs. Paint correction is completed in order to remove imperfections on your car’s surface.
For example, you may have noticed that some cars have marks that appear like spider webs on your car paint under the sun or a street lamp? Paint correction can address this along with other damage to your vehicle’s surface. Our paint correction experts use techniques, tools and chemicals to smooth out the painted surfaces. The end result enhances the gloss effect and makes your vehicle’s paint look new.
We generally advise that paint protection be performed before installing paint protection film or ceramic coating so that you are applying the protection when your clear coat is at its best.
The stages of paint correction
Some vehicles have light scratches, while others show serious damage. The degree of the damage determines the process that we use to correct the paint on your car. Below we have detailed three different stages to give you a general idea of how each differs.
Stage 1
If your car has small marring and swirl marks, they can often be lightly removed. This involves a single step polish combined with a porous foam pad that removes imperfections while adding depth and gloss. Stage 1 paint correction can generally fix up to 50% of paint imperfections.
Stage 2
A stage two vehicle has moderate or medium swirl marks and scratches that are embedded in the clear coat. For these cars, our paint protection techs will use two different polishes and pad combinations. Generally, we start by using a more abrasive compound and microfiber cutting pad. Then we utilize a finishing polish and a porous foam pad to remove any marring left in the paint. Stage 2 paint correction will fix 85%+ correctable defects.
Stage 3
If your car needs more serious paint correction, we highly suggest that you defer to a professional detail company like ours. When a car’s paint job is dulling or has heavy swirl marks or other defects, this will require a three-step program. Stage 3 is considered a multi-step correction where our technicians will address all correctable defects for a 95%+ defect free finish. This will be accomplished using various pads, compounds, polishes and a paint meter. This process usually takes between 12 and 15 hours.
Professional paint correction services
Mint Mobile Detail is your go-to paint correction provider in Atlanta. When your car’s paint encounters hazards that impact the glossy finish, you can rest assured that your vehicle will be restored.
Paint correction is a necessary procedure that our Atlanta paint correction experts handle with care and perfection. Mint Mobile Detail has a highly trained and experienced team of professionals ready to assist. Our owner traveled to California to become Detail King certified. Our techs have also received Gtechniq training from a Gtechniq detailer of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Speaking generally, Stage 1 paint correction with a polishing pad will remove about 50% of paint issues such as swirl marks and water marks. Stage 2 paint correction, can often resolve around 85% of paint issues.
We can’t tell you for sure until we see your vehicle. If you notice scratches, swirl marks or other damage on your car, you can likely benefit from paint correction. If you’re looking at getting PPF or a ceramic coating, we often suggest paint correction for optimal results. Feel free to email us pictures of your vehicle or give us a call to see how we can help.
Paint contaminants are a common issue. Contaminants might include brake dust and industrial fall out that bonds to the clear coat of your vehicle. When you gently glide your hand over your vehicle’s finish you can likely feel these contaminants. If it is not smooth, then what you’re feeling are the contaminants.
The paint correction process can take several hours to several days depending on the size and condition of your vehicle. Feel free to email us pictures of your vehicle or give us a call so we can give you a more precise estimate based on your car’s needs.
The visible defects that we can correct through our process stay away as long as you maintain your vehicle’s paint properly. This means proper and regular washing and avoiding automated car washes to minimize scratches.
Be sure to maintain your car’s shine by keeping it clean and detailing it properly. If you want to protect your paint further, you can consider a ceramic coating and/or paint protection film.