How to remove oxidation from paint

Reasons Why Paint Oxidisation Needs To Be Addressed

Oxidation in a car's paint can lead to several problems, affecting both the appearance and the integrity of the paintwork:

Dull and Faded Appearance

The most noticeable effect of oxidation is a dull, faded, or chalky appearance on the paint surface. Oxidation causes the paint to lose its shine and lustre, making the vehicle look old, neglected, and unattractive.

Loss of Colour Intensity

As oxidation progresses, it can cause the colour of the paint to fade or change, leading to a loss of colour intensity and vibrancy. This can make the vehicle's paint look dull and washed out, detracting from its overall appearance.

Surface Roughness

Oxidation can also cause the paint surface to become rough and uneven, with a texture that feels gritty or sandpaper-like to the touch. This roughness is caused by the buildup of oxidised paint particles and contaminants on the surface, creating an unsightly and unpleasant texture.

Reduced Protection

The oxidation process compromises the protective properties of the paint, leaving the underlying layers of the vehicle's bodywork vulnerable to damage from UV rays, moisture, and environmental contaminants. This can lead to accelerated corrosion, rusting, and deterioration of the paint and metal surfaces.

Accelerated Wear and Tear

A car's paint serves as a protective barrier against environmental elements, including UV radiation, moisture, and debris. When oxidation occurs, this protective barrier is compromised, leading to accelerated wear and tear on the paint and underlying panels and surfaces. This can result in premature ageing and deterioration of the vehicle's appearance.

Difficulty in Cleaning

Oxidised paint is more difficult to clean and maintain than properly maintained paintwork. The rough and uneven surface of oxidised paint traps dirt, grime, and contaminants, making it challenging to clean and restore the paint to its original condition. This can result in a perpetuating cycle of deterioration if left untreated.

Reduced Resale Value

A car with oxidised paint is less attractive to potential buyers and may command a lower resale value compared to a vehicle with well-maintained paintwork. Oxidation detracts from the overall appearance and perceived value of the vehicle, making it less desirable on the resale market.

Aesthetic Displeasure

Beyond the practical implications, oxidation can also cause aesthetic displeasure for car owners. A vehicle with oxidised paint may no longer look as sleek, shiny, and well-maintained as it once did, leading to dissatisfaction and frustration with its appearance.

Removing Oxidisation From Your Car’s Paint

The first thing you’ll need to do is to gather the right tools and materials.

Tools for the Job

• Car wash soap
• A bucket
• Microfibre towels
• Clay bar
• Car polish
• Applicators
• Polishing pads
• Car wax or sealant

Wash the Car

Start by washing the car thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the paint surface. Use a car wash soap and a bucket of water to gently wash the car, starting from the top and working your way down. Use a clean microfibre towel or cloth to dry the car completely before proceeding to the next step.

Inspect the Paint

Once the car is clean and dry, inspect the paint surface for signs of oxidation. Look for areas that appear dull, faded, or chalky, indicating the presence of oxidation. Pay special attention to areas that are exposed to sunlight, such as the bonnet, roof, and boot, as these are more prone to oxidation.

Base Coats, Clear Coats

Most car paint comprises a base coat of colour, (e.g., grey, silver, red) then a clear coat, which is see through, is put over the top to add gloss and protection. Earlier cars just had the paint, no clear coat. What often occurs in older vehicles, especially if left outside in the elements is the clear coat is either worn away or begins lifting away or peeling from the basecoat.

Polishing can make it look better though it is hard to hide the edge where the base and clear coats meet. It is only a temporary measure. The best way to fix it is to respray the panel that has the issue. Usually it is a bonnet, boot or roof as they cop the worst of the elements.

Note: Restoring any paint surface usually means removing some of the paint. Polishes and cutting compounds are abrasive. You ideally want to start with a mild solution and work your way up to the harshest if the mild solution does not work.

Clay Bar Treatment

Before applying any polish or cutting compound, use an automotive clay bar to remove any embedded contaminants from the paint surface. Spray a lubricant onto the paint and gently glide the clay bar over the surface in a back-and-forth motion. The clay bar will pick up dirt, tar, and other contaminants, leaving the paint smooth and clean. You can feel this by rubbing your hand over the area you have clay barred compared to an untreated surface. It will feel smooth to the touch.

Apply Polish or Cutting Compound

There are 2 methods of applying polish or cutting compound to a panel. By hand or using a buffing or polishing machine.  The machine is quicker and works well on large panel surfaces. Small items like mirrors or a rear spoiler have a lot of compound curves and are best done by hand.  Tight spaces, ridges or dips in panels, even panel edges can be hand finished.  A good rule of thumb is if the polisher’s pad cannot sit flat on the metal panel, hand finish. Always read the instructions on the bottle or tin of the polishing or cutting compound.

By Hand

Once the paint surface is clean and smooth, apply a car polish or cutting compound to remove oxidation and restore shine. Apply a small amount of polish or cutting compound to an applicator pad and work it into the paint surface in circular motions. Focus on one section of the car at a time, working in small areas to ensure thorough coverage.

Note when using any polishes or waxes they are best applied in the shade or early morning, late evening. Simple rule is if the panel is hot too touch, do not polish. The reason being is it dries too quickly on the panel.

By Machine

After applying the polish or cutting compound to the pad, use the machine to buff the paint surface and remove oxidation. Use a low-speed setting and do not press down on the polisher. Let the weight of the machine rest on the panel. Simply use your hands to guide it. Keep it moving to avoid damaging the paint.

Work the car polisher in overlapping passes, moving from one section or panel of the car to the next until the entire surface has been buffed. Mask off any edges especially when using it for the first time. Stay away from ridges as it is easy to remove the paint from the top of them. Practice on flat surfaces until you have a feel for the machine.

Remove Excess Polish

Once the paint has been buffed, use a clean microfibre towel or cloth to remove any excess polish or cutting compound from the paint surface. Wipe the surface gently in straight lines, being careful not to reapply any removed oxidation. Inspect the paint surface to ensure that all oxidation has been removed and the paint is smooth and shiny.

Apply Wax or Sealant

To protect the newly restored paint surface and enhance its shine, apply a coat of car wax or sealant. Use a clean applicator pad to apply the wax or sealant in a thin, even layer, working one section of the car at a time. Allow the wax or sealant to dry to a haze, then buff it off with a clean microfibre towel or cloth to reveal a glossy finish.

Inspect and Touch Up

Once the wax or sealant has been applied, take the time to inspect the paint surface and touch up any areas that may need additional attention. Use a detailing spray or quick detailer to remove any remaining wax residue and ensure a smooth, glossy finish.

Regular Maintenance

To prevent oxidation from recurring, it's important to maintain the paint surface regularly. Wash the car regularly to remove dirt, dust, and debris, and apply a coat of wax or sealant every few months to protect the paint from environmental damage. By taking care of your car's paint, you can keep it looking shiny and new for years to come.

By following these steps carefully and using the right materials and techniques, you can effectively remove oxidation from your car's paint and restore its shine and lustre. Whether you're preparing your car for a show or simply want to maintain its appearance, removing oxidation is a worthwhile investment that will enhance the overall look and value of your vehicle.