How to Use a Buffer to Remove Scratches From My Car
Cars can get a lot of scratches on them just from everyday driving as well as from various weather conditions, animals and foliage. If you have continuously labored by hand to buff scratches from your car and don't enjoy the intense work that projects by hand require, you may be ready to try to use a buffer to remove scratches from your car. Buffers aren't just for professionals anymore. You can find a car buffer to match your level of detailing expertise.
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Things You'll Need
- Buffer
- Buffer polishing pads
- Rubbing compound
- Spray bottle
- Water
- Isopropyl alcohol
- 2 microfiber cloths
- Buffer finishing pad
- Finishing wax
Instructions
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1
Select the pad you'll use to buff the scratches. Several are included with the buffer when you purchase it. For fine scratches, use a thin, light buffer pad. For deeper scratches, use a thicker, heavier pad. Place the pad on the buffer by sliding it onto the circle polisher.
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2
Spread the rubbing compound over the scratches with the buffer turned off. Let the compound set up for a few minutes until it whitens. Spread the compound over the scratches in a circular motion with the buffer.
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3
Set the buffer to 1,000 RPM (revolutions per minute), and turn the buffer on. Work in a side-to side motion across the scratch, not branching out more than 18 inches with the buffer. Increase the speed to 1,200 to 1,500 RPM as you switch to an up-and-down motion, working the compound into the scratches as you go.
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4
Turn off the buffer if the rubbing compound becomes dry or turns from white to clear. Spray a mixture of water and isopropyl alcohol on the scratches and buff away the compound with a soft microfiber cloth.
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5
Take the polishing pad off the buffer and replace it with the finishing pad, which should be the thinnest, lightest pad in your set. If you're not sure, check the manufacturer's instructions.
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6
Apply a finishing wax to the pad (not the car), and spread it over the car with the buffer set at a low speed. Spread the finishing wax evenly over the surface according to the manufacturer's directions.
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7
Buff the car with a microfiber cloth to remove any traces of the finishing wax.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure the car is clean before you buff the scratches off with the buffer.
Make sure it is dry outside while you perform this task. You could shock yourself while using an electrical appliance on wet ground.
