Removing deep scratches from the paintwork in 6 steps

Overview

A common problem for car owners: deep scratches in the paintwork. These scratches can ruin the car's appearance significantly. At Cartec, we have a detailed step-by-step plan to remove these scratches quickly and effectively and restore the paintwork to top condition.

Preparation

Before you start, it is essential to make the right preparations. Make sure you tape off all plastic and rubber parts to avoid damage. For this, use masking tape that leaves no residue and adapts to the contours of the surface.

Equipment

Cartec Rapid Cut 4000
Cartec Final Cut 9000
Cartec WaxCoat
Cartec Panel Spray
Cartec roterende polijstmachine
Cartec excentrische polijstmachine
Cartec Microfiber Ultra-Soft Towels in various colours
Cartec Unipad Orange and Finishing Pad White

Polishing Steps

Step 1: Washing your car

The first step is to wash your car thoroughly. This removes dirt and contaminants that can interfere with the polishing process. It is important to do this properly; a clean base is essential for an even and smooth result. If necessary, follow the step-by-step plan for washing your car in the insight ‘This is how to wash your car’.

Step 2: Determine working area

Define a working surface that is roughly shoulder-width apart and six times the area of the pad. This helps you work in a structured and efficient way, so you don’t skip spots and achieve an even result. Like the directions opposite.

Step 3: First polishing with Rapid Cut 4000

Now the real work begins. For an eccentric machine, use the Cartec Unipad Orange and Cartec Rapid Cut 4000. Start with a low speed of 800 RPM to spread the product evenly over the paintwork.

Then increase the speed to 3500-4800 RPM. and polish until the scratches disappear. Do you prefer to work with a rotary machine? Then use the same pad and product, but set the machine to 1200-1500 RPM. After polishing, wipe clean with a Cartec Microfibre Ultra-Soft Towel Orange.

Step 4: Fine polishing with Final Cut 9000

For a finer finish, we recommend the Cartec Final Cut 9000 on an eccentric machine with the CartecFinishing Pad White. Set the machine to 3500-4800 RPM and polish until all scratches or holograms are completely removed. Wipe the surface with a Cartec Microfibre Ultra-Soft Towel White for spotless results.

Step 5: Inspection with Panel Spray

After polishing, it’s time to inspect your work. Use Cartec Panel Spray and a Cartec Microfibre Ultra-Soft Towel Red to wipe the surface clean. This removes all residue and makes any remaining scratches visible, so you can be sure you haven’t overlooked anything.

Step 6: Protect with WaxCoat

Now that the paintwork looks scratch- and hologram-free again, we recommend protecting it. Use Cartec WaxCoat for excellent protection and a high-gloss finish. Apply the WaxCoat panel by panel with an applicator or cloth. Rub to high gloss with the Cartec Microfibre Ultra-Soft Towel Violet. This provides long-lasting protection and shine.