Don't let swirly microscratches dull your paint finish

You’ve washed and waxed your vehicle, cleaned the windows and chrome, but you notice a dullness along the door, fender or hood. Upon closer inspection, you see swirls and holograms in the finish.

How do you get rid “microscratches” that seem to be visible only when the sun shines on your freshly washed and waxed vehicle?

“If it’s a type of mark you can’t feel with your fingertips – swirl marks, light hazing – you’ll want to use a clear coat safe compound.” said Mike Pennington of Meguiar’s. “Traditional polishing compounds that you might have used before are not made for today’s cars.”

According to Pennington, the problem is caused by dust and other contaminants in the wash mitt, sponge, water bucket and towels. The good news: microscratches are easy to remove. The bad news: they are easy to create because clear coats used on most vehicles are extremely sensitive to abrasion.

Microscratches are like dry skin, Pennington said. The special compounds are like exfoliators, and wax alone will not remove the micro scratches.

“Just by waxing you’ll be sealing in all the swirl marks,” Pennington said.

Pennington emphasized using clean, quality wash mitts and drying towels.

“The mitt is designed to pull dirt off the car,” Pennington said.

If the mitt is not washed and dried properly, that dirt will come in contact with your painted surface, leading to the return of microscratches. If properly cared for, the mitt will last a long time.

Pennington recommended washing and drying the wash mitt along with your drying towels, storing it away from dust and other contaminants. He also suggested having separate wash mitts for painted surfaces and wheel areas.

“You don’t want to cross-contaminate the mitts with brake dust,” Pennington said.

Pennington offered the following tips for removing those micro scratches:

• Choose the correct compound for your vehicle’s finish. Carefully read the manufacturer’s label to determine which product is best-suited for your vehicle.
• Work on a clean surface. Wash and dry your vehicle first. Use clean water, bucket, mitt and drying towels to help prevent more microscratches.
• Make sure to read the label since manufacturer’s have specific recommendations for use.
• Use clean foam applicators and apply uniform pressure. Multiple applications may be necessary depending on the severity of the scratches.
• Use clean microfiber towels to remove the product safely.
• Apply wax for a long-lasting shine and to help prevent microscratches.

“Avoid anything that may cause abrasion to that finish,” said Pennington.