Misconceptions About Paint Correction (Polishing)

The Truth About Paint Correction: Common Misconceptions

Paint correction can do wonders for your car’s finish — but it’s not a miracle fix. We often get asked what polishing can and can’t fix, so here’s a quick breakdown of the most common misconceptions:

1. "You can fix rock chips with paint correction." This one comes up a lot. Rock chips are physical damage where paint is actually missing, and no amount of polishing can bring that paint back. Correction is designed to improve the existing surface, not fill in gaps or chips. For those, you’ll need touch-up paint or repainting.

2. "Polishing will take out deep scratches from an accident." If the scratch is light and just in the clear coat, there’s a good chance we can remove it or dramatically reduce its appearance. But if it’s deep or from an impact, there are limits. We can definitely make it look better, but some scratches simply can’t be polished out completely.

3. "Once you remove oxidation, it’s gone for good." Polishing can remove oxidation and bring back gloss, but if the paint has already started to break down or is unprotected, oxidation can come back over time. That’s why we always recommend protecting the surface after correction with a ceramic coating or sealant.

4. "If the paint is flaking or peeling, polishing will fix it." Unfortunately, once your paint starts flaking or peeling, the clear coat has completely failed — and no amount of polishing can fix that. At that point, we typically recommend sanding and repainting the affected areas, or considering a color change wrap if you're looking for a fresh look without committing to paint.

5. "You can just polish over failing clear coat." Trying to polish over peeling or failing clear coat actually makes things worse. The buffer will just tear up the edges more and accelerate the damage. In those situations, it’s best to either repaint or wrap the panel — not attempt correction on something that’s already beyond saving.

The bottom line: Paint correction is all about maximizing the condition of what’s already there. It’s incredibly effective on swirls, hazing, and light imperfections, but it’s not a substitute for paint repair or replacement.

If you’re unsure about the condition of your vehicle’s paint, reach out — we’ll give you an honest assessment and walk you through the best options.