Help with carwash scratches!

[andrews]

I know I could do a search but instead of piecing together an answer, how about some simple responses to a question I have.
I've got an '03 Honda CRV (wifes). Black. Like an idiot I ran the car through an automatic car wash a couple of times (never again) and as a consequence, it now has lots of hairline scratches on it. What simple process and products (inexpensive if posible) would you guys advise me to use? I'm thinking of a two or three step process and I don't own a buffer. Is Meguiars stuff any good? If so, what ones? Is Mothers better? How about the cheaper brands? I just want to remove 90% of the scratches/swirls and bring it back to like new again.
Thanks for any simple ideas you folks may have.

 

[Curious Kid]

I thought my father had learned his lesson with the van he had some time ago, but with his next vehicle (yes it was a dark green/black metalic), he did it again. I guess it was an off day for him.

Regardless, before turning the vehicle in at the end of the lease, I washed and dried the car, and with a orbital buffer I applied and later buffed off what I believe was Mother's California Gold carnauba clearner wax. I honestly think the car never looked so good through the whole time of "ownership."

For the most part, I believe this waxing got rid of most of the scratches which I suppose were nothing more than mar marks in the clear coat. Don't recall there being any points against the deal either when the vehicle was finally turned in.

Good luck, but keep in mind that the exterior of the car is always under some sort of attack, be it the natural elements or those imparted by others (swinging doors, run-a-way carts, dangling keys, toys, bags and purses, etc.).

 

['Tard]

Meguiars DACP #83 (Dual Action Cleaner/Polish)
Elbow Grease, and Ben Gay.

 

[XS650]

If you haven't already tried it, try a good paste wax on it. If the scratches are superficial enough the wax might fill and help enough. A small chance but worth a try.

If that doesn't work you should beg or borrow a good orbital buffer and get some good swirl remover like 3M or several other companies make.

 

['Tard]

Paste wax doesn't fill in swirls and spider webbing which are micro scratches.

DACP is a product that starts out somewhat abrasive and breaks down during use to a fine polish.

Do you really want to experiment with a buffer (orbital or not) on your wifes black car?

 

[Islandvic]

I would Clay Bar the whole vehicle first.

Then hit it with 3M's ClearCoatSafe SuperFine Rubbing Compound (black bottle about 10oz) with buffer.

Remove leftover residue and try Eagle One's NanoWax. Be sure to buff it out cause the microfiber rag that's included doesnt do the best job of buffing it out.

I have used the all the above mentioned products.

The NanoWax seems to lose its smoothness with the "finger wipe test" after 2 weeks but still beads for a long time after.

I use a Craftsman 6" Orbital Buffer. Low power and I barely apply any pressure. I judge the weight of the buffer is about how hard I press down (not very hard at all).

This is why I dont buy Black vehicles, plus its HOT where I live.