A dual action polisher will help remove swirl marks and scratches from your car’s paint. Also, it can help in the application of wax and polish to your car. Without any doubt, a dual action polisher is a great addition to your car care kit. If you don’t know how to use one, here’s our step-by-step guide on how to use a dual action polisher.
What’s a dual action polisher?
A dual action polisher is a tool that allows you to wax and polish your car effectively. By waxing or polishing your car using your hand or applicator, you can sometimes cause uneven streaks or patches on your car’s paint. This is where a dual action polisher can help you. The orbital action by the polisher will allow you to apply wax or polish seamlessly. Also, the jiggly motion produced by the polisher will prevent it from burning or removing the paint.
How to use a dual action polisher?
Step 1 – Choosing the cleaning pads
Make sure you choose the right cleaning pad for the process. Pick a cleaning pad based on the outcome you’re expecting. Here are the different types of cleaning pads and their uses:
Light cutting foam pad or cutting foam pad: If you want to remove moderate to severe swirl marks and scratches off your vehicle’s paint, the cutting foam pad is a great option. You can use the pads with paint cleaners and polishes, and it usually comes in orange and yellow colors.
Polishing foam pad: The polishing pad gives the paint a glossy shine and comes in different textures and densities. Polishing foam pads come in green, white, or blue, depending on the foam’s thickness and density.
Finishing foam pad: A finishing foam pad will give you the best results while applying waxes or sealants. It can effectively remove the swirl marks on dark-colored paints and give you a great finish. Finishing foam pads are usually black.
Step 2 – Prep the vehicle
Clean your car spotlessly before using the dual-action polisher to polish or wax your car. You can follow the two buckets method, waterless car wash, or any method to wash your car ad dry it with a microfiber towel. Never use a dual action polisher on a dirty car; you can introduce new scratches.
Step 3 – Remove scratches, wax, and polish
If you’re looking to remove the scratches and swirl marks, use the cutting pad and polish. First, attach the cutting pad and apply the paint cleaner or polish over the pad’s surface. Make sure all the areas in the pad are covered with polish. Next, place the pad on the spot you want to polish and switch on the polisher. In a back-and-forth motion, apply the polish onto the surface.
To polish your car, use the polishing pad and polishing product of your choice. Now, attach the polishing pad and apply an optimal amount onto it. Cover the pad’s surface completely with the product. You can add two pea-sized amounts of polish on the pad before starting the process.
Repeat the same process to wax your car. Use waxing products and the finishing foam pad to give your vehicle an added shine and protection.
Renée Martin is a travel and car expert who focuses on road and air travel in the U.S. For the past 6 years, she’s been helping make driving and trip planning easier and budget-friendly for everyday travelers.
