Some Q's on Camry paint correction

rainstorm · 07-14-08, 09:24

Gas prices have forced me into a 2000 Camry I'd like to detail. The finish is very scratched. Not swirled, scratched. However, nothing deep enough to catch a finger nail. It looks to be from a dog jumping on the doors and maybe from boxes being drug across the trunk lid and top of the car. Not being familar with a foreign car finish, nor anything in this deplorable condition, I'd like to exchange some guess work for some tips on what type of compound(s) and pads to begin with. I do have a [7"] rotary and a PC, and am familar with using both.

I thank you for the advice.

TSC17 · 07-15-08, 06:11

Here is some info on a 2003 model that I worked on that was in rough shape. They actually correct pretty easily...just take your time and do it right.

03 Camry revival. Lots of pics!

rainstorm · 07-15-08, 08:06

Very ironic. I have the same (flake) color car. However, picture wise, yours pre-detail, seemed to be in much better condition. Mine is extremly surfaced scratched.

I've clayed the finish thus far. That alone was a 40% improvement.

I thank you for the time.

TSC17 · 07-15-08, 10:20

No problem. It was pretty bad, but that was before I had a DSLR, and couldn't get my old camera to focus well on the scratches. I never would have gotten them out without wetsanding.

Have fun.

rainstorm · 07-15-08, 10:33

You're braver than I am--wet sanding. If I can get a nice scratch diminished shine, it shouldn't be totally unacceptable for a daily driver. :-)

Cheers.