Determine whether the vehicle has a conventional or basecoat/clearcoat paint system by hand applying a compound to an inconspicuous area of the paint. If color appears on the rag, the vehicle has a conventional paint system (which can be compounded aggressively). If not, it has a basecoat/clearcoat system (on which light to moderate buffing products should be used).

Determine the condition of the paint by examining the vehicles horizontal surfaces for scratches, oxidation and swirl marks.

If the depth of the scratches and extent of the oxidation warrant it, compound the surface with a high speed buffer and cutting pad. Buff slowly in a 2’ x 2’ area, using a side-to-side motion

Monitor the amount of paint being removed with a paint thickness gauge.

Remove all compounding residue with a soft, clean cloth.