Paint Correction
Paint correction is the process of safely polishing your vehicle’s paint to remove surface imperfections like swirl marks, light scratches, and oxidation, restoring a deep, reflective finish. At A&M Precision Detailing, we offer 1-step and 2-step paint correction to match your vehicle’s condition and your goals.
Our Paint Correction Prep Process
Before any polishing begins, proper prep is key. Every paint correction starts with a thorough, detail-focused wash and decontamination, including:
- Cleaning tires, wheels, and wheel wells
- Applying tire dressing for a clean finish
- Gentle foam bath and hand wash to safely lift dirt and grime
- Cleaning door jambs
- Iron decontamination to break down embedded contaminants
- Clay mitt treatment to remove any remaining embedded contaminants and smooth the surface to prep it for polishing
This prep ensures the paint is perfectly clean, allowing the polish to perform at its best.
1-Step Paint Correction
Improvement Level: ~50–70%
Ideal For: Vehicles with light swirl marks and mild imperfections.
A 1-step correction uses a single polishing pass to significantly enhance gloss and depth. While it won’t remove deeper scratches, it dramatically improves the overall appearance.
Time & Space Requirements:
- Small vehicles: ~4–6 hours
- Mid-size vehicles: ~6–7 hours
- Full-size vehicles: ~7–8 hours
- Can be performed outdoors under a canopy, though a garage is always preferred for the best results. Weather conditions must also be suitable.
1-Step Paint Correction Pricing:
Small vehicles: $500
Mid-size vehicles: $600
Full-size vehicles: $700
2-Step Paint Correction
Improvement Level: ~80–90%
Ideal For: Vehicles with moderate to heavier swirl marks, light scratches, and more visible defects.
The 2-step process involves:
- A cutting stage to remove deeper imperfections.
- A polishing stage to bring out maximum clarity and shine.
Time & Space Requirements:
- Small vehicles: ~8–10 hours
- Mid-sized SUVs: ~10–12 hours
- Full-size SUVs and trucks: 12+ hours.
Depending on the size and condition of the vehicle, this service may take more than one day to complete. A garage or enclosed space is required to keep the environment controlled and free from dust, debris, and weather-related issues.
2-Step Paint Correction Pricing:
Small vehicles: $800
Mid-size vehicles: $900
Full-size vehicles: $1000
Paint Protection After Correction
Once your paint is corrected, we apply your choice of paint protection:
- Wax
- Ceramic sealant
- Or ceramic coating for long-term protection
Note: Ceramic coatings are a separate premium service. Learn more about our ceramic coating options here.
How Long Will the Results Last?
The longevity of your results depends on:
- How well the vehicle is maintained
- Whether you choose a wax, sealant, or ceramic coating
- How the vehicle is stored (garage-kept vs. outdoors)
On average:
- Wax: ~3–4 months
- Sealant: ~6–12 months
- Ceramic coating: 3+ years, depending on the package selected
Regular maintenance washes help extend the look and protection of your freshly corrected paint.
Managing Expectations
Paint correction does not repair paint chips, deep gouges, or areas where paint is missing. Those issues typically require professional paintwork or body shop repairs.
Even with a 2-step correction, some deeper scratches may remain. Our goal is to deliver the best, safest improvement possible without compromising the integrity of your paint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will paint correction fix paint chips or peeling clear coat?
Can you do this in my driveway?
- 1-step correction: Yes, as long as we have shade and access to power, although a garage or enclosed space is preferred.
- 2-step correction: No, a garage or enclosed space is required to ensure a clean, controlled environment.
Will all scratches be removed?
Set the Right Expectations
Paint correction is an investment in your vehicle’s appearance. By understanding the levels of correction, time involved, and environmental requirements, you’ll know exactly what to expect and how to maintain your results long term.
Ready to correct your paint? Book your paint correction appointment today.