Paint Correction vs. Polish: What's the Difference?
If you've been quoted a 'polish' for $99 and a 'paint correction' for $695, you're probably wondering what justifies the difference. The short answer: a lot.
Polishing: Cosmetic Improvement
Polishing is typically a single-step process using a mild abrasive. It improves gloss, removes very light marring, and can temporarily mask deeper defects by filling them with oils that wash out within a few weeks.
Paint Correction: Defect Removal
Paint correction is a multi-stage process designed to permanently remove defects by carefully leveling the clear coat with progressive abrasives. We measure clear coat thickness, test panels under bright lighting, and use the right combination of pad, polish, and machine speed for your specific paint.
When You Need Which
- Polish — pre-event refresh, light enhancement on a newer car
- 1-Stage Correction — daily driver with light swirls
- 2-Stage Correction — older or heavily marred paint
- 3-Stage Correction — pre-ceramic coating on a show vehicle
Why It Matters Before Coating
A ceramic coating locks in whatever is underneath it. Skip the correction and you lock in your swirls for the next 5 years. Always pair correction with coating.