Source: YouTube

Swirls and scratches are the eyesores of automotive paint and can really take away from the overall luster of your vehicle. Not sure where these imperfections come from? Check out this video from James Melfi, where he highlights where these imperfections come from and how to avoid them!

Detailing Guide

• Washing & Drying
• Polishing

Ask-A-Pro Posts

• Ask-A-Pro: Should I Take My Car Through A Car Wash?
• The Real Cost of a “Cheap” Car Wash
• The Importance of Proper Car Washing Techniques
• More Washing and Drying Articles!
• More Imperfection Removal Articles!

Video Transcription

Hey, James with Detailed Image. Swirls and scratches are the eyesores of automotive paint. They are imperfections that reduce the luster and glow and can take hours to remove through polishing but you would be surprised how easily they can form. So where do swirls and scratches come from in the first place? Let’s start with the most common misconception, the tunnel wash. The tunnel wash, in theory, is designed to remove the dirt from the car, but in reality, it’s rubbing that dirt into the finish with the brushes, thus creating swirls and scratches. An improper hand wash can be just as devastating. Without proper lubrication and wash media, again you are just rubbing that dirt into the paint. Another thing I see often is paint being wiped down with dusters and towels. Yes, this does remove the dust but at the expense of rubbing it into the paint. My last point is this, paint delicate, don’t touch it. By grabbing the paint and placing things on the vehicle, you’re 100% going to create swirls and scratches.