Car Compounds & Polishes

Paint correction separates amateur detailing from professional results. Compounds and polishes remove swirls, scratches, oxidation, and other paint imperfections, revealing the clarity and depth hidden beneath. DIY Detail's compound and polish collection includes formulas engineered for different correction levels and paint conditions.

Whether you're restoring faded paint, removing machine swirls, or preparing for ceramic coating, our selection delivers professional-grade correction without professional pricing. Each formula is designed to be effective yet safe on modern clear coats.

Understanding Compounds vs. Polishes:

Compounds:

• More aggressive abrasive action
• Remove deeper scratches and defects
• Heavy cutting power
• Leave haze that requires polish
• Used in first correction stage

Polishes:

• Medium abrasive action
• Refine results from compound stage
• Remove hazing and micro-scratching
• Enhance clarity and gloss
• Final finishing stage

When to Use Each Product:

Gold Standard Compound Best For:

• Severe swirl marks from careless washing
• Deep scratches from rocks or debris
• Heavy oxidation and fading
• Paint that hasn't been corrected before
• Machine wash damage

Gold Standard Polish Best For:

• Following compound application
• Light to medium swirls
• Refining compound results
• Creating final gloss and clarity
• Pre-coating preparation

C6 Adhesion Promoter Best For:

• Final polishing stage before ceramic
• Removing polish residue and oils
• Maximizing ceramic coat bonding
• Professional-grade finishing
• Long-term coating durability

Product Comparison Chart:

Expected Results Timeline:

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Using compound on light defects (over-correction)
• Skipping polish stage (unfinished appearance)
• Applying ceramic without APP (reduced durability)
• Working in direct sunlight (premature drying)
• Excessive pressure (burning through clear coat)
• Wrong pad pairing (ineffective correction)
• Insufficient working time (rushed results)

Build Your Correction Arsenal:

Professional detailers keep both compound and polish on hand for different situations. Start with polish for light work, add compound as your skills advance. Quality formulas yield results that turn heads and restore value.