Cost effective way to improve cars paint

[benjijames28]

Paintwork on my BMW F10 5 series is not looking it's best. Previous owners have either neglected it or let monkeys have a go at polishing it.

Massive swirl marks etc... All over, which is a shame because it's a beautiful colour (imperial blue).

To have a 2 stage polish I'm looking at about 350 plus extra for these posh ceramic coatings.

I've not washes or polished my own Cars in years so I'm hoping to get some suggestions on how I could improve appearances without spending a fortune.

Am I right in thinking a polish like auto glym super resin has lots of fillers which will temporary cover up swirls etc...?

What other products should I look at?

I already know about clay bars and mitts, and would use them first.

Or am I best forking out say 360 quid having the pro polish it and seal it with wax, then keep on top of the wax myself?

[chammyman]

Spend the money.

[finlo]

Tcut and elbow grease works wonders for very little outlay.

[Rayy]

I use Autoglym Super Resin polish on our cars. It's easy to use and will, in my experience, reduce some lighter marks.

Bilt Hamber Double Speed Wax on top gave a nice finish to my 25yo Mercedes and also my daughters 13yo Mini. This last product came with a useful foam pad with which you apply it and also a big microfibre cloth to buff with.

Maybe try these (or similar) and see how you like the results? If then you still want better, it may be time to pay a pro detailer.

[ecsrobin]

I can recommend chemical guys blacklight followed by Bilt Hamber double speed wax.

Due to my location I have to use a mates house to store all my detailing gear and wash the car, his car is a black BMW and the paintwork is truly awful, in some places the paintwork has turned white.

After a coat of blacklight and then the wax it looks incredible, he even keeps sending me photos banging on about how it’s never looked so good so for £30-40 for the 2 products it’s worth a shot.