What is Paint Correction

Paint Correction is a detailing service that removes scratches, swirl marks, and other blemishes from a car’s clear coat.

RSRVD: Paint Correction Explained

What Does Ceramic Coating Do?

Paint correction is a highly specialized process designed to restore the appearance of a vehicle’s paint by addressing various imperfections. Whether it’s swirl marks, scratches, oxidation, or other paint defects, paint correction removes these defects and helps restore a car’s finish to its smooth and glossy state. Over time, all vehicle paint jobs are susceptible to imperfections caused by environmental elements, improper washing, and general wear and tear. Car Corrections are the professional solution to restore vehicles, by rejuvenating paint thickness, health, and shine.

Grey Charger in Driveway with Car Detailer using microfiber cloth to correct paint
What are these paint defects?
Types of Paint Imperfections

Vehicle paint can suffer from a variety of imperfections over time, often caused by everyday driving, environmental factors, and improper care. The most common types of paint imperfections include swirl marks, which are circular scratches caused by improper washing or drying techniques; scratches, which can range from light surface marks to deep gouges caused by sharp objects; oxidation, which occurs when prolonged exposure to the sun and elements causes the paint to fade or become chalky

Swirl Marks

Swirl marks are circular scratches that occur on a cars paint, from improper washing. These marks are caused when debris or dirt gets trapped in towels, sponges, or automatic car washes, and is rubbed across the paint. Swirl marks can range from barely visible to deeper and more noticeable.

Swirl marks on the paint of a black car with the sun in the center

Scratches

Scratches can vary in severity from light surface marks to deep gouges. These are often caused by sharp objects like branches, rocks, keys, or even small accidents. Auto Paint correction is capable of removing or reducing the appearance of these scratches, depending on their depth.

Scratches on a blue car from exterior damage

Oxidation

Oxidation occurs when the paint is exposed to the sun and the elements over time, breaking down the clear coat and causing a dull, faded appearance. Paint may appear chalky, rough to the touch, or discolored. This service removes the oxidized layer of the clear coat, and then reapplies.

oxidation on red car from long term exposure to elements

Water Spots

Water spots are deposits left behind by water that has evaporated on the paint’s surface. They can leave behind an etched appearance on the clear coat. Car Paint correction smooths the surface and eliminates these marks by removing the clear coat and reapplying.

Water stains on blue vehicle seen due to sun glare
Whats The Process?
How Does Paint Correction Work?

Car Paint correction uses machine polishing techniques to remove imperfections in the paint. The process is typically performed in multiple stages, depending on the severity of the defects, with each step progressively refining the surface. It’s important to understand that corrections are not a one-size-fits-all service, as each vehicle may have different types and depths of imperfections.

Initial Assessment

Before any correction begins, a thorough evaluation of the vehicle’s paint is done. This assessment identifies the type and severity of defects. This is where the stages of polishing will be decided and an effective plan of action. This acts as a blueprint/plan for the entire paint correction process. By putting a well-thought-through plan in place you can avoid removing too much paint and further damaging the vehicle’s exterior.

Light blue corvette logo on rear of classic luxury car

Washing and Decontamination

The first step in the paint correcting process is to wash the vehicle thoroughly. This crucial step, removes any dirt from the vehicles surface and gives a clean foundation. After washing, the vehicle undergoes a decontamination process. This includes a clay bar treatment, which removes any tough contaminants like brake dust a common culprit. This step prevents any contaminants from making the paint worse during the correction.

Chad with RSRVD Automotive washing the grill of a grey hellcat charger

Polishing

Polishing is the heart of the paint correcting process. Depending on the level of correction required, multiple stages of polishing can be needed. Polishing uses a rotating buffing machine with a variety of solutions. Here you break down the coats that have the defects.
In the case of multi-stage job, the first stage typically involves using a more aggressive chemical solution to address deeper defects. The second stage if the imperfections are handled this will be a finer polish to refine and smooth the surface.

Chad from RSRVD Automotive polishing a red SUV during a paint correction

Sealant or Wax Application

After the polishing stages, a protective layer is applied to the paint. This is either a paint sealant or a ceramic coating, both have their own use cases. Paint sealant is used when a durable, easy-to-apply layer of protection is needed, typically providing a smooth finish and moderate protection against environmental elements. It’s ideal for those who want long-lasting protection but don’t require the high-end, hydrophobic properties offered by ceramic coatings.

Grey Charger in Driveway with Car Detailer using microfiber cloth to detail
Benefits of Paint Corrections

Paint corrections offer numerous advantages to restoring and maintaining the aesthetic quality of your vehicle. By addressing imperfections early in their life cycle you can get ahead of long-term and expensive maintenance. This process not only enhances the visual appeal but also helps preserve the paintwork by eliminating contaminants and creating a smoother, more durable surface.

Restores Shine and Gloss

restores the vehicle’s original gloss and depth and ensures the long-term health of a vehicle surface.

Improves Paint Clarity

By eliminating these imperfections, the health and appearance of a vehicle’s paint are restored. This results in a more visually appealing, flawless finish.

Prevents Further Damage

Removing defects like embedded dirt, brake dust, and tree debris helps prevent future paint damage. It creates a smoother paint layer, making it harder for dirt and debris to bond to the paint.

Increases Vehicle Value

A well-maintained, glossy paint job can significantly boost the resale value of your vehicle. Paint correction helps restore your car’s appearance, which is particularly important if you’re planning to sell or trade it in.

Whats The Process?
Is Paint Correction Right For Your Car?

Auto Paint Corrections are ideal for anyone who wants to restore the appearance of their vehicle and address imperfections caused by external factors. It’s especially useful for older vehicles with faded or worn paint because older vehicles are closer to the point of no return. Which can lead to costly repairs

When Should You Get Paint Correction?

Paint correction is an essential service when your vehicle’s paint begins to show signs of wear and imperfections. If you notice swirl marks, scratches, oxidation, water spots, or a general dullness to your vehicle’s finish, it’s time to consider addressing the issues. This service is particularly valuable for cars that have been exposed to harsh environmental conditions, such as intense sun, road salts, or frequent automatic car wash usage. For older vehicles or those that have undergone multiple washes and have accumulated imperfections, paint correction restores the paint’s health extending its lifetime. It’s also an excellent choice before applying paint protection such as ceramic coating, as a freshly corrected surface provides the perfect conditions for protection to bond and perform as desired. Keeping up with your vehicle’s exterior condition can keep your vehicle looking its best, preserving its finish for many more years.

All black show car leaving shop after getting paint correction
Tips To Keep Your Vehicle Healthy

These tips come from experienced professionals and detailing experts across the web, offering valuable insights into how to maintain and preserve your vehicle paint. Following our expertise and other expert recommendations will help ensure your vehicle’s paint stays in top shape.

“When washing your car, avoid rough brushes and harsh chemical cleaners that can cause micro-scratches and marks on your car’s paint surface. Instead, opt for soft, non-abrasive cleaning tools such as microfiber cloths or foam applicators. “
“We recommend avoiding automatic car washes, particularly those with abrasive brushes. These washes can cause swirl marks, scratches, and damage to your vehicle’s paint and protective layers. Touchless Automatic Car Washes or Hand Washing is your best bet”
“The important thing here is to use mild cleaning agents with a low pH value, as well as soft, clean sponges, brushes and cloths.”
“Make sure to wash the car from the top to the bottom. That will help prevent dirt from being washed onto already clean sections. And rinse as you go; if you leave all the rinsing until the end, the soap will dry.”
AAA.com

RSRVD Mobile Detailing

We are a mobile detailing company which means we come directly to you with our auto detailing services. Our detailers are located in Camden County, NJ and service a 10 mile radius from our location. Check out our service area or give us a call to see if we service you!

Service Area for RSRVD Automotive in South Jersey 15 mile radius from RSRVD. Mobile Auto Detailing
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Frequently Asked Paint Correction Questions

Over time, your vehicle’s paint can develop imperfections due to exposure to the elements, improper washing techniques, and daily wear and tear. Paint correction helps restore the finish by eliminating these defects, making the vehicle look new again.

The time it takes for paint correction varies depending on the severity of the paint defects and the level of correction required. On average, it can take anywhere from 4 to 12 hours, but it could be longer for more extensive damage.

Here at RSRVD Automotive we have different levels of Paint Correction depending on the severity of the damage on your paint. Gloss Enhancement tackles like imperfections, Correction & Clarity tackles moderate imperfections, and Showroom Perfection tackles server defects.

Polishing is a part of the paint correction process. While polishing refers to the act of smoothing and refining the paint surface, paint correction is the broader process that includes polishing and other techniques to remove imperfections like scratches, swirl marks, and oxidation.

Yes, it’s highly recommended to apply paint protection after paint correction. A paint sealant or ceramic coating will help maintain the newly restored paint and protect it from future damage.

Summary
What Is Paint Correction?
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What Is Paint Correction?
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Paint Correction is a detailing service that removes scratches, swirl marks, and other blemishes from a car's clear coat.
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RSRVD Automotive
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