How to Remove Swirls in Automotive Paint, Lacquer and Clear Coat
Swirls are most commonly caused by bad washing / drying techniques - but can also be caused by incorrect polishing techniques.
Our range of Cutting Compounds are optimal for removing heavy defects and scratches, but swirl marks and holograms typically require a less aggressive application with a fine cut polish and finishing pads.
Below are our recommended processes - both via Rotary and Dual Action (Orbital) polishing systems.
Remove Swirls... with Rotary Polishing
Below is our recommended process using our Professional Automotive Refinishing Range - in this case using our G360 Super Fast Finish - which for bodyshops will leave you with an industry accepted swirl-free finish by eye in minimal time.
Depending on your compounding system and the severity of the swirls you may require the use of a cutting compound first - the below process is based on the Medium Cut and Fine Cut stages of the G360 system but for lighter swirls you could just use the Fine Cut process
Medium Cut
Step 1: G360 Super Fast Compound
Step 2: Polish
Step 3: Inspect
Fine Cut
Step 1: G360 Super Fast Finish
Step 2: Polish
Step 3: Inspect
Products Used
G360 Super Fast Compound is designed to rapidly eliminate sanding marks and minor defects from painted and lacquered automotive surfaces.
75 mm & 150 mm | Eliminates sanding scratches and swirls when used with medium to high cut compounds on paint, lacquer and GRP finishes.
G360 Super Fast Finish is designed to rapidly eliminate swirls and holograms from painted and lacquered automotive surfaces - ideal on darker colours after using G360 Compound.
75 mm & 150 mm | The G Mop Finishing Foam range has been specially designed for their excellent high gloss properties, minimal throw off (mess) and a low operating temperature when used with Farécla’s range of Finishing Compounds and Waxes .
G Plus Finishing Cloths are ideal for quick cleaning and drying jobs. Its microfibre technology grips dust and small dirt particles, and the cloth’s edgeless finish prevents damaging and scratches.
GPT050 | The G Plus Cordless Rotary Polisher has been developed to Farécla’s own specification to be the battery powered equivalent of the popular corded polishing machine.
GPT002 & GPT003 | The G Plus Rotary Polisher has been developed to Farécla’s own specifications to deliver the ideal polishing machine for bodyshops and trade professionals.
Remove Swirls... with Dual Action Polishing
A skilled bodyshop operative can achieve a flawless finish with a Rotary polishing system - but for clientele seeking a higher quality finish under the closest scrutiny, some bodyshops are adopting a Dual Action Polishing process as part of an end-of-line process for their ease of use and reliable attainment of a flawless finish.
For those customers, Farécla recommend the use of a Dual Action Polishing Machine and a dedicated D.A. Fine Polish and Pad.
Below is a partial Dual Action process on the basis that a compounding step has been used beforehand - depending on the severity of the swirl marks you may need to start with a D.A. Cutting Compound and Pad
Attach your Foam Polishing Pad...
Apply the product
Spread to the surface...and set your machine speed
Polish from side to side...
...and then up and down.
Wipe and Inspect
Products Used
G3 Pro D.A. Fine Polish is a light abrasive liquid that removes minor imperfections for a mirror shine finish - optimised for use with a Dual Action Polisher.
The G3 Pro Foam Polishing Pad offers a light cut perfect for finishing and is ideal for OE and refinished paints.
G Plus Finishing Cloths are ideal for quick cleaning and drying jobs. Its microfibre technology grips dust and small dirt particles, and the cloth’s edgeless finish prevents damaging and scratches.
GPT250 | The G Plus Cordless Dual Action Polisher has been developed to Farécla’s own specification to be the battery powered equivalent of the popular corded polishing machine.
GPT202 & GPT203 | The G Plus Dual Action Polisher has been developed to Farécla’s own specification to deliver the ideal DA polisher for anyone looking to achieve a flawless finish.
Final Cleaning and Protection
Step 1: Spray
Step 2: Wipe
Step 3: Buff