Paint Correction

1-step uses a single medium-cut compound on a polishing pad — great for light to moderate swirls and overall gloss. 2-step uses a heavy-cut compound first to remove deeper defects, then a finishing polish to lock in the gloss. 2-step is the right call when paint has noticeable scratches, oxidation, or hard water spotting that 1-step won't fully erase.

We do a depth-gauge inspection before quoting. If your paint has light swirling and you mostly want gloss back, 1-step ($199) is plenty. If you can see scratches with the naked eye in good light or have water spot etching, you'll want 2-step ($399). We never upsell — we tell you exactly what your paint needs.

Polishing uses light abrasives only to enhance gloss without removing defects. Paint correction uses cutting compound to actually remove a microscopic layer of clear coat, eliminating swirls and scratches. Real correction permanently removes defects — polishing just hides them temporarily.

It removes scratches that haven't penetrated the clear coat. Run your fingernail across the scratch — if it catches, it's likely too deep for correction alone and may require touch-up paint or wet sanding (which we can also do).

Yes — ceramic coating locks in whatever is underneath. Always correct first, then coat. Our 9H ceramic package already includes a 1-step correction. Add 2-step pricing if your paint needs heavier work before coating.