2014 Corolla LE Makeover....by novice...

[Maple]

I've never use a DA polisher before. Never done any compound polishing.
I bought this car used. Toyota Certified. Got a good deal.
I admit I'm not completely Meguiars. Did buy a bunch of Meguiars. 3 gallons. Also UPW. The top and routine maintenance will be Meguiars.
I'm just posting the 'Before" pics now.
I won't be fast getting this done. I only have one day a week off work.
I've read that detailers find ones like this, interesting.

[Mr. Slick]

Re: 2014 Corolla LE Makeover....by novice...

Nice makeover! All those swirls look terrible in the sun. Next time I would put before pics first then the after.

[Maple]

Re: 2014 Corolla LE Makeover....by novice...

The first one isn't an after pic.

[Mr. Slick]

Re: 2014 Corolla LE Makeover....by novice...

Sorry. Maybe because the sun wasn't reflecting off it, it looked deep black like a polished car. Can we get some afters when you're done?

[Maple]

Re: 2014 Corolla LE Makeover....by novice...

I do have to admit. That first pic does appear like someone might try to pull that off as finished. It isn't at all. I originally said I intend to post after pics. Might post a process pic or two if it seems interesting?
I did do the clay today. Also removed the dealer sticker. Dealer advertising plates and holders. Did touch up on the hood.
Looking closely doing the clay. There is a whole bunch of flaw in this. The hood really should be repainted. I'm just aiming to make it look decent. Protect the finish. Get a bunch of experience with the DA also.
I did stumble upon an interesting process in touch up. A tiny chip. I dabbed too much on. I wiped it immediately. Came out looking great. I couldn't tell afterward where the chip was?
I do admit. Had a nice afternoon. Took it easy. Did spend way too much time doing what I did. Then got impatient and got it done. Looking forward to the process.

[exploreco]

Re: 2014 Corolla LE Makeover....by novice...

Enjoy the process. It is a pretty color. Looks similar to the color on my Toyota. You will be glad you have the DA for taking care of those swirl marks. It will look like a new car when you get done! I find cleaning to be relaxing.

[Maple]

Re: 2014 Corolla LE Makeover....by novice...

Just an update to let anyone know I haven't lost heart on this. Weather has not been cooperating. I have to do this outside.
I would like to put in a plug for the X-press Wax. Been using it after each wash. Just to get something on there. The metallic in the paint is showing more. This should look really great after I polish it.
I was just looking and noticing. Those chips in the hood. They show white. That means to me they didn't take out all the clear coat. Otherwise they would show black. Right? Either way. Got them touched up. Need to polish to make them blend in with the rest of the paint.

[Mr. Slick]

Re: 2014 Corolla LE Makeover....by novice...

I'm looking forward to seeing the results!

[Jarhead0754]

I agree with exploreco, enjoy the process as u will love the outcome when you can see what you can do!

[Nick Winn]

Re: 2014 Corolla LE Makeover....by novice...

Those are some serious swirl marks, but nothing that can't be taken care of with a DA and a good compound.