How to Do Paint Correction

A Step-by-Step Guide for Restoring Your Car’s Finish

Whether you're a car enthusiast or just want to bring back that showroom shine, paint correction is the key to restoring your vehicle's appearance. Done right, it removes swirl marks, fine scratches, oxidation, and paint dullness.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to do paint correction properly—and why professional help may be worth it if you’re in Aurora, Colorado, where weather conditions can wear down your paint faster.

What Is Paint Correction?

Paint correction is a multi-step process that safely removes surface imperfections from your vehicle’s clear coat using specialized tools and products. Unlike waxing or polishing, which can temporarily hide defects, paint correction eliminates them.

Tools & Products You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following:

• Dual-action (DA) or rotary polisher

• Cutting and polishing pads

• Compound and polish

• Clay bar and lubricant

• Microfiber towels

• pH-balanced car wash soap

• IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol) spray

• Paint thickness gauge (optional but recommended)

• Adequate lighting and shaded workspace

Step-by-Step: How to Do Paint Correction

1. Thorough Wash and Decontamination

• Hand wash the car with a pH-balanced soap

• Use a clay bar to remove embedded contaminants

• Dry the surface completely with microfiber towels

2. Inspect the Paint

• Use proper lighting to identify swirl marks, oxidation, and scratches

• Check clear coat depth with a paint thickness gauge if possible

3. Test Spot

• Choose a small area to test your product and pad combo

• Start with the least aggressive compound and work up if needed

4. Cutting (Compounding)

• Attach the cutting pad to your polisher

• Apply compound and work the surface in slow, overlapping passes

• Wipe off residue with a clean microfiber towel

5. Polishing

• Switch to a polishing pad and use a finer polish

• This stage enhances gloss and removes hazing from the cutting step

6. Final Wipe Down

• Use an IPA spray to remove any remaining oils

• This reveals the true finish and ensures no filler residue is left behind

7. Protect the Finish

• Apply wax, sealant, or ceramic coating to protect the corrected paint

Paint Correction Tips

• Work in small sections (2' x 2')

• Don’t rush—correction takes time

• Always use clean pads and towels

• Keep the polisher moving to avoid burning the paint

• Consider professional help for deep scratches or sensitive finishes

Should You Do Paint Correction Yourself?

DIY paint correction is possible if you have patience, the right tools, and a good understanding of the process. However, it’s easy to make mistakes that could damage your paint.

If you're in Aurora, Colorado, it may be best to consult a trusted local detailer like Moose Car Care, especially if your vehicle is exposed to harsh sun, snow, or road debris year-round.

Professional Paint Correction in Aurora, CO

For flawless results without the risk, Moose Car Care offers expert paint correction services right here in Aurora. Our trained technicians use professional-grade equipment and techniques to safely restore your vehicle’s finish.

Finish step for Paint Correction