Paint correction is a multi-stage machine polishing process that removes swirl marks, scratches, water spots, and oxidation to restore a vehicle's paint to a mirror-like finish.
Typical Cost
$300–$2,500
based on real installs
Reviews
197
English owner examples
Shops
56
installers with this service
Models
5
popular car matches
Use a swirl finder light to evaluate the severity of scratches, swirl marks, and oxidation across all panels.
Perform a thorough wash, clay bar treatment, and iron fallout removal to strip embedded contaminants.
Single-stage (light swirls), two-stage (moderate), or multi-stage (heavy oxidation). More stages = more time and cost.
The detailer uses a dual-action or rotary polisher with progressively finer compounds and pads to level the clear coat.
Apply ceramic coating, sealant, or wax immediately after correction to lock in the results and prevent future damage.
| Brand | Avg. Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Kia · 11 reviews | $106 |
| Genesis · 10 reviews | $92 |
| Mercedes-Benz · 8 reviews | $78 |
| Hyundai · 8 reviews | $87 |
| BMW · 7 reviews | $117 |
Single-stage correction costs $300–$800. Two-stage costs $600–$1,500. Multi-stage for heavily damaged paint can reach $2,500+.
Single-stage takes 4–6 hours. Two-stage takes 8–12 hours. Multi-stage can take 2–3 days.
Professional paint correction removes a thin layer of clear coat. Done properly, it's safe. Avoid shops that skip paint depth readings.
