What is Cut and Polish for Car Paint

Maybe you have seen in many motor vehicle advertising cut and polish, or paint correction, but what it means? It may be sound very straight forward and simple, however, it is not always the case.

Cut and polish or paint correction is a term used by many professional car detailers around the globe to express the process of restoring the paintwork of the vehicle by removing a fine layer of the clear coat by using a particular cutting and polishing compound.

The proper professional cutting method requires a professional cutting technique with the correct tools, and a particular compound. Don't forget patience, passion and attention to detail are crucial ingredients to achieve a great result.

This process will remove: light scratches, swirl marks, marring, holograms and bring back the shine of your vehicle paintwork.

Process that do not use the correct tools or are done with improper technique or use a cheap and abrasive compound can be considered as a poor cutting and polishing method.

This process may cause

• Thinning Your Vehicle Clear coat or no more clear layer to protect your vehicle base paint.

Note: Your vehicle clear coat, work like a shield against UV, pollutant and chemical contamination (such as bird droppings, tree gum, etc.)

Without its protection, the UV rays will start to bake your vehicle base colour, and this will create oxidation, haze, cracked or peeled clear coat and rust.

• Buffer trial, haze, hologram, creation of new micro swirl marks

• Worst-case scenario: burned paintwork and may cause thousands dollar to repair.

What is the difference between Cutting and Polishing

As we mentioned above, cutting is the process of removing imperfection of your vehicle paintwork.

Polishing is a broad term, but it generally is the next process after cutting, is a process to maintain paintwork, remove minor paint defect and to protect your vehicle paint job and bring back the paintwork gloss or shine.

Polishing is best after decontamination or clay bar treatment and cutting.

Most Common Paintwork Imperfection

One of the most common imperfection in most of the car.

Swirl marks are microscopic scratches in the paintwork surface and looks like a spiderweb under the intense light or sun.

Cause: Incorrect washing and Drying method.
Dry the Vehicle using Abrasive/harsh cloths.

Can cut and polish remove this? : Yes.

Door Handle Marks: Light Scratches, An awful-looking marks around the Door handle.

Cause: Fingernails, jewellery like rings, keys.

Can cut and polish remove this? : Yes, but depend how deep is the scratches.

Trail, minor scratches

Cause: Tree branches, keys in the pocket, slight scrubbing, or abrasive fabric.

Can cut and polish remove this? : Yes, but depend how deep is the scratches

Oxidised paintwork, Haze

This is a commonly appear on the repainted panel or repaired panel with single stage Paintwork (paint job without clear coat)

Cause: Poor cut and polish method, Unprotected paint job and exposure to the sun, Chemical Contamination, or unwashed vehicle.

Can cut and polish remove this? : Yes and No, but depend what cause the haze.

Holograms, Buffer Trails, Marred

Cause: A poor Cutting method, Not using the correct tools and improper technique or using a Cheap and Abrasive compound improper use of the polisher Or buffer machine.

Note: Most of these awful marks are hidden till you wash your car a couple of times after detailing.

Can cut and polish remove this? : Yes 

Burned car paint due to improper cut and polish
This the worst-case scenario.

Cause: A poor Cutting method, Not using the correct tools and improper technique or using a Cheap and Abrasive compound 

Can cut and polish remove this? : No, repaint is the only option to fix this. 

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

1. How is Cut and Polish different from waxing?
Waxing only adds a layer of protection and shine on top of the paint, while cut and polish removes minor surface damage to improve the actual condition of the paint. Cut and polish also helps prepare the surface for additional protection, such as waxing or ceramic coating.

2. How long does a Cut and Polish take?
The time required depends on the car's paint condition and the level of detail needed. Generally, a cut and polish can take 2-6 hours for a basic treatment, but it could be longer for heavily damaged or oxidised paint.

3. Will Cut and Polish remove all scratches?
Cut and polish can remove or reduce light to moderate scratches and imperfections. However, deeper scratches that reach the primer may not be fully removed and could require touch-up paint or other repairs.

4. How often should I get a Cut and Polish?
It depends on your car’s usage and exposure to the elements. For most cars, a cut and polish once a year is enough. However, if your vehicle is frequently exposed to harsh conditions, you may benefit from this treatment every 6-12 months.

5. Does Cut and Polish damage the paint?
When done correctly by a professional, cut and polish should not damage the paint. However, since it involves removing a thin layer of the clear coat, overdoing it can reduce the overall paint thickness, which is why it’s best left to experienced detailers.

6. Can I do Cut and Polish myself at home?
While DIY kits are available, achieving professional results can be challenging without the right tools and experience. Incorrect application may cause uneven results or even damage the paint. Professional services ensure a high-quality, safe finish.

7. Is Cut and Polish suitable for all car paint types?
Most modern car paints, especially those with a clear coat, can benefit from cut and polish. However, it’s important to check with a professional if your car has specialty or custom paint, as it may require special care.

8. Will Cut and Polish remove oxidation?
Yes, cut and polish is effective at removing oxidation and restoring a vibrant, glossy finish to faded or dull paint.