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Paint Polishing vs Paint Correction | How much it costs?

  • Writer: Wings Mobile Detailing
    Wings Mobile Detailing
  • 14 hours ago
  • 3 min read

Paint Polishing vs. Paint Correction: What You Need to Know

Your car's appearance is a direct reflection of how well it is cared for. Whether you're preparing to sell your vehicle, entering a car show, or just love a mirror-like finish, understanding the difference between paint polishing and paint correction is critical. At Wings Mobile Detailing, we specialize in bringing out the best in your vehicle’s paint through two distinct services: Paint Polishing and Full Paint Correction.


Let’s dive deep into what sets these two services apart, the real-world costs involved, and how our industry-leading mobile detailing services can make your car shine like new again.

Mobile Detailing team polishing

What is Paint Polishing?

Paint polishing is a single-stage process that enhances the gloss and clarity of your vehicle's paint by removing light surface imperfections. It involves a machine polish using a medium-cut polish and polishing pad to refine the clear coat without cutting deeply into the paint layer.


Key Features of Paint Polishing:

  • Removes light swirl marks, haze, and minor oxidation

  • Enhances shine and gloss

  • Usually takes 1–3 hours to complete

  • Ideal for newer or well-maintained vehicles

At Wings Mobile Detailing, our Paint Polishing service is only $300—significantly lower than the national average of $400. Even better, we include a professional-grade sealant in this service to protect the newly polished surface and extend its shine.



What is Paint Correction?

Paint correction is a multi-stage process (usually 2–3 stages) that removes deeper imperfections in the vehicle’s clear coat. This includes deeper swirl marks, scratches, oxidation, and even etching from bird droppings or acid rain.


Stages in Paint Correction:
Meguiar's compound
  1. Compounding: Removes deep defects with an abrasive compound

  2. Polishing: Refines the surface after compounding

  3. Finishing Polish: Enhances gloss and smoothness


Key Features of Paint Correction:
  • Corrects deeper paint imperfections

  • Provides a true mirror finish

  • Can take 6–12+ hours

  • Prices typically start at $1,500+ depending on vehicle size and condition

This Paint Correction service (vs paint polishing) is perfect for vehicles that have been neglected, have visible damage, or if you're aiming for showroom-level results.



Price Comparison: Paint Polishing vs. Paint Correction

Service

Average Time

Price Range

What It Does

Learn More

Paint Polishing High Gloss (1-stage)

1–3 hours

$300 at Wings (Avg. $400 elsewhere)

Enhances gloss, removes light swirls

Paint Correction (3-stage)

6–12+ hours

$1,500+

Removes deep defects, mirror finish


Paint Correction

Why Add Sealant or Ceramic Coating After?

Once your paint is polished or corrected, it’s essential to protect it. Otherwise, the results will quickly fade due to UV rays, road contaminants, and water spots.


Sealant

Power Lock Sealant
  • Lasts up to 6 months

  • Provides hydrophobic (water-repelling) protection

  • Included FREE in our $300 Paint Polishing service



Ceramic Coating (Gtechniq Serum)

Ceramic Coating

  • Lasts 2–5+ years

  • Chemical and UV-resistant

  • Adds gloss and makes washing easier


Learn more about our paint protection services here: https://www.wingsmobiledetailing.com/ceramic-coating




When Should You Choose Each Service?

Choose Paint Polishing if:

  • Your car is relatively new or regularly maintained

  • You want a cost-effective shine boost

  • You're preparing for a special occasion

Choose Paint Correction if:

  • Your vehicle has visible scratches, oxidation, or swirl marks

  • You want the best possible finish before applying ceramic coating

  • You’re preparing for resale and want maximum value


Wings Mobile Detailing Van

Why Choose Wings Mobile Detailing?

At Wings, we bring our professional equipment and expertise directly to your home or office. Our trained technicians ensure each step is executed to perfection—no shortcuts.


What Makes Us Different?

  • $300 HighGloss Polish + Free Sealant

  • Mobile service – we come to you

  • Service available in 7 key locations

  • Certified detailing professionals


Our Locations

  • Richmond, VA | Book Now | (804) 250-1028

  • Virginia Beach, VA | Book Now | (757) 744-3054

  • Fairfax, VA | Book Now | (703) 951-3118

  • Greensboro, NC | Book Now | (336) 228-5939

  • Boca Raton, FL | Book Now | (954) 866-6884

  • Brooklyn, NY | Book Now | (718) 691-8286

  • Fraser, MI | Book Now | (313) 572-4352

Or call our main line: (804) 500-7696

Conclusion

Paint polishing and paint correction may seem similar at first glance, but they serve very different purposes. Whether you're looking for a quick refresh or a complete paint overhaul, Wings Mobile Detailing has you covered.

Book today and let your car shine like it was meant to!

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