How to Polish a Powder Coating

Powder coating is popular for high-end cars.

Cleaning and polishing a powder coated surface is the best way to keep it looking good and prevent damage to that special painted surface.

1. Fill a bucket with water .Add one cup of a mild detergent to the bucket. Mix the solution thoroughly.

2. Dip a soft rag into the cleaning solution, and wring it out until it is just damp. Clean the powder-coated surface using a gentle pressure. Do not rub the powder-coated surface, as that could damage it.

3. Soak a soft cloth with water, and use it to rinse the powder-coated surface thoroughly. You may need to rinse it several times to remove all of the cleaning solution. Rinse the cloth thoroughly between each cleaning, or use a new cloth each time. Do not move on to the polishing phase until the powder-coated surface is perfectly clean. Attempting to polish a dirty powder-coated surface could damage the finish.

4. Apply a polishing compound designed specifically for powder-coated surfaces. Read the instructions on the label to make sure the product is safe for powder coating and to determine how it should be used. Use a soft cloth to apply the polishing compound. Allow it to dry for the specified amount of time, and then wipe away the excess.

5. Finish the polishing process by applying a coat of a quality automotive wax. Check the packaging to ensure the wax is safe for powder-coated surfaces. Apply the wax and allow it to dry and harden. Hand-buff the surface or use a polisher to bring out the shine. The time required for the wax to dry varies from brand to brand, but it generally takes between 10 and 20 minutes for the coating to harden sufficiently. Check the package for specific drying times.