When it comes to buffing your car, there are a few things to consider: polisher, speed, and technique. If you’re not sure what to do or how or how to do it, don’t worry. We’re here to help you keep your car shining like new.
Check out our car detailing and buffing recommendations below and learn how to use a car buffer like a pro.
How to Pick the Right Car Polisher
With so many polishers on the market, it can be tough to decide which will help your car the best. The next time you’re considering a purchase, keep these things in mind.
Quality
We all want a good product, but very few car owners look up reviews. Before spending your money, see what others think. After all, they’ve already tested the product.
Range of Speed
On average, car buffers allow between 600 and 3000 RPMs. Make sure the product you select is similar to that. For a good even finish, start at a slower speed and increase your rate as needed.
Throw
The circumference your polisher covers is referred to as the throw. The larger your throw, the easier and faster you’ll buff. Auto owners with larger vehicles typically select larger car buffers to help them access places that are harder to reach.
Weight
Consider the weight of the buffer you want. Hold the polisher in your hands. Does it feel comfortable? Is it too heavy? This component is often a determining factor, especially if this is your first one.
Price
You get what you pay for. Cheap polishers will break easily or malfunction after a few uses. Try not to let prices sway you one way or the other. Quality will likely come with a price but this is an investment you won’t regret making.
Proper Buffing and Polishing Technique
Step One: Wash your car and leave it wet. Automotive buffing should never be done on a dry vehicle.
Step Two: Place a clean and the slightly damp polishing pad on the buffing wheel.
Step Three: Apply a small amount of compound on a section of your vehicle and polish at a low-medium speed.
Step Four: Use constant pressure and keep the polisher parallel to avoid swirly markings.
Tip: Keep the area wet and use moderate amounts of polish for each area.
Step Five: Work back and forth over the small area until the solution heats up. When this happens the paint will warm and scratches will disappear.
Tip: As needed, remove your buffing pad and rinse with a hose to prevent a buildup of solution.
Save yourself time and elbow grease by using Clean Tool’s Buffing Ball to access those tricky spots. Uniquely designed for polishing chrome, aluminum, and painted surfaces, this tool is a car, motorcycle, or boat enthusiast’s dream! Made from soft viscose fibers, it’s the durable yet gentle buffing tool you need to rid your vehicle’s wheels of grime and dirt. Best of all, the buffing ball conveniently attaches to battery, air, and electric drills with ease.