I need some expert opinions on how to get rid of these imperfections. The Z and I greatly appreciate any help you can offer. The scratch in the paint is about the size of a nickel. It is through the clear-coat but not through the paint. I'm a little afraid to use a heavy polish or rubbing compound for fear of doing more harm than good. The scratch is way at the bottom of the car toward the back tire. Should I just leave it alone?

I have absolutely no idea how I got the scuff on the horn. I tried Armor-All and it helped a little. Any thoughts on how to fix or cover?

 

Scratch:

 

Scuff:

 

A band-aid? Seriously man, you can barely see it ...

 

That, to me looks like a wet/color sanding project. Question is: What sort of experience do you have with taking 2000 grit sand paper to your clear coat? I can pretty safely guide you through the process if you're up for it. You'll should be able to get rid of it, but to get rid of it with some sort of over-the-counter remedy would be extremely time consuming.

 

ZpikeZ and DetailingDude,

Thanks for the thoughts! I'm not real comfortable using sand paper on the car. I was hoping there'd be a simpler solution that required little expertise on my part.

Considering where the scratch is, I think I'll leave well-enough alone. Any thoughts on the steering wheel?

 

Dont give up on the wet sanding idea. It is 10 times easier than you think.

The grit paper you would use is so fine, that it would be hard if not impossible to screw up with a little care.

We are talking level 10 fine here, think about it.

My two cents,
Eric

 

Eric,

Thanks for your comments. Where do I buy this stuff, and what exactly should I ask for? Are there rubbing compounds and/or polishing compounds that I'll need to buy also? I'm willing to give it a try if you guys are willing to hold my hand through it. What are some definite "dos" and "don'ts" about a job like this?

Any thoughts on the steering wheel scuffs?

Thanks!

Michael

 

Have you tried applying a polishing wax? I would give it a shot before taking any drastic measures. On my 2k black Maxima I was usually able to get out scuffs in my rear bumper with a polishing wax pretty easily.

I would not recommending rubbing compound for the reasons you are afraid of, it will cause fine scratches and leave a dull spot. I would think the fine sandpaper idea would cause even more damage. Usually a body shop will wet sand after painting but then they use a buffer to polish the paint. It doesn't sound like you have the equipment to start experimenting with wet sanding...