3M polishing compound is one of the most important and indispensable tools in automotive polishing. Its role is to remove micro-scratches in the paintwork, wash-induced marring, oxidation and other surface defects. The compound contains fine abrasives that remove a microscopically thin layer from the upper part of the clear coat. As a result, the surface becomes glossy, uniform and visually appealing again, restoring a scratch-free, mirror-like finish.
When is polishing necessary? – The role of 3M polishing compounds in car care
Polishing is needed when the paintwork loses its depth, becomes dull, or fine scratches appear on the surface. These defects are often caused by improper washing techniques, environmental factors, or simply the age of the vehicle. Polishing also offers a solution after refinishing work if you notice colour differences, UV-induced temporary dullness, or surface irregularities.
3M polishing compounds are particularly effective in removing common holograms and swirl marks that can be caused by low-quality or worn polishing pads. When the right product and technique are used, the clear coat can once again shine in its full gloss.
The role of polishing compounds is not limited to improving appearance. Polishing helps to prepare the surface for various protective coatings, such as waxes or ceramic coatings, ensuring that the vehicle retains its gloss and protection for a longer period.
The main steps of automotive polishing
Professional automotive polishing always starts with preparation. The first step is a thorough wash to remove all loose contamination, dust, dirt and road salt, as these, combined with the polishing compound and the movement of the polishing machine, can create new scratches. In many cases, decontamination (e.g. removal of tree sap, industrial fallout, brake dust residues) is also recommended so that you see the true condition of the clear coat rather than the build-up on top of it. Washing is followed by degreasing, and then the paintwork is inspected so that the appropriate 3M polishing compound can be selected.
Only then can the actual polishing begin, using either a dual-action (random orbital) or a rotary polishing machine. During polishing, the correct speed, pressure and control of the machine movement are critical. The machine should be guided with even pressure, avoiding overheating. It is advisable to use the compound in small amounts and work in smaller sections so the surface can be controlled more precisely. As the finer defects are removed, you can switch to a finishing compound to achieve a mirror-smooth, high-gloss result.
In the final step, any residue of polishing compound should be carefully removed with a microfiber cloth, after which the surface should ideally be sealed with some form of protection – wax, sealant or ceramic coating. Polishing makes the clear coat smoother and thus visually more attractive, but at the same time more sensitive, which is why protection is particularly important if you want a long-lasting result.
The essential conditions for successful polishing are a clean working environment, proper lighting and patience. 3M polishing compound alone is not enough: if the polishing pad is contaminated, the wrong type of machine or incorrect settings are used, or you try to rush the process, you can easily be left with holograms, patchy gloss or new scratches on the surface. Our advice is to always perform a test on a less conspicuous area before polishing the entire vehicle.
3M polishing compounds from Flanker
Flanker offers several different 3M polishing compounds, each optimised for specific defects, surfaces and process steps. Here are a few examples:
The 3M Perfect-It Fast Cut Plus Compound 50417, – also known as the “green cap” compound – is a fast-acting, universal, medium-step product. Used with a suitable polishing machine and matching green foam pad as part of 3M’s colour-coded system, it is well-suited for removing sanding marks, more serious wash-induced scratches and other moderate defects. It is ideal for bodyshops and advanced enthusiasts who need defect correction and good gloss in as few process steps as possible.
The 3M Perfect-it Famous Finish 51677 is a new-generation “purple cap” polishing compound with a particularly fine, modern abrasive structure, making it suitable for producing a hologram-free, mirror-gloss finish. Its main purpose is high-gloss finishing and minimising holograms. This 3M polishing compound is the right choice when the heavier cutting stages have already been completed, and the goal is to achieve a perfect, deep gloss and glass-smooth surface – or when only light surface defects are present from the outset.
The 3M Perfect-It Fast Cut Compound 09374 (the “white cap” compound) can be a good choice for general defect removal and gloss restoration when the paintwork is moderately scratched but does not require an extremely aggressive correction step. This polishing compound integrates well into polishing processes where the goal is a fast yet controlled result.
The 3M Finesse-it Polish - Finishing Material PN09639 is a dedicated fine finishing solution, often used on more sensitive paint systems, repaired areas or special coatings as the final step. In such cases, the goal is not heavy material removal but rather eliminating remaining micro-scratches and holograms and achieving a uniform, deep gloss.
We discuss in detail why there are so many different polishing compounds and how to choose between them in our article "different damages, different pastes".
Our earlier articles also provide comprehensive guidance on how to remove scratches from your car at home and how to perform DIY car polishing.
3M polishing compounds, with their outstanding quality, advanced abrasive technology and reliability, support both professional and home car care. By selecting the right product and applying the correct technique, the bodywork can be restored to a glossy, defect-free and aesthetically pleasing condition. Thanks to Flanker’s expertise and wide product range, every user can find the best 3M polishing compound for the task at hand.
