Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

How do I remove swirls from car paint?

Is it possible to remove the swirls from my car paint? After washing my car and letting it dry, I noticed there were swirl marks on my car paint. I hope I didn’t ruin my car!

avatar
Phoebe Mah · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Yes, it is possible to remove swirl marks from your car paint! Swirl marks are a result of improper cleaning and wiping techniques. That said, don’t worry! You can remove swirl marks with materials from an auto repair store.
Materials you will need:
  • Car polish—either a compound or finishing polish.
  • Car fallout remover
  • Car clay lubricant
  • Car clay bar
  • Car applicator pads
  • Clean microfiber towel
  • Wax or sealant
Once you have your materials, you’re ready to begin!
  • Wash your car and inspect the paint: If the surface feels rough and you see
    tar spots
    or asphalt, treat the paint with fallout or glue remover.
  • Apply a clay lubricant to the paint: Lubricant prevents the clay bar from scratching.
  • Use the clay bar, then polish: After using the clay bar, the paint should be smooth to the touch. Use three to four pea-sized dots of polish to a clean applicator pad and work in circular motions.
  • Before the polish dries, wipe off the excess: Do this immediately with a clean microfiber towel. Turn the town over to lightly buff the surface for a glimmering finish.
  • Apply wax or sealant: Either provides protection and gloss, ideally avoiding swirl marks in the future.
If these steps seem overwhelming or you’d rather leave the fix to professionals, visit a
detailer
. They typically have machines or tools that can easily remove the swirl marks for you.
Since you obviously care about your car, consider getting a roadside assistance membership with
Jerry
. For as low as $4.16 a month, Jerry provides you with industry-leading roadside assistance, including benefits like towing, lockout service, and a mechanics hotline.
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings