Detailing isn't cutting it...

[Drone]

(preface: Yes I've searched, and I just spent the past 3.5 hours reading various threads)

I've been driving a 94 325is now for a while, I believe I'm still dealing with mostly original paint (some damage to the front end from a PO means there was at least a partial respray) and the 14 year old paint has finally pissed me off for the last time.

The car is a serious 10 footer, any closer then that and the paint looks HORRIBLE. I've been through more detailers then I'd like to admit. Swirl marks throughout the whole car, no one has gotten them removed totally, chips on the front end every 2 or 3 inches, about 5-6 scratches around the car some very deep. This coupled with the new bumper and trim that's planned before spring, is leading me to think that a paint job is an order.

I'm currently bouncing between doing all the prep/masking/sanding myself and sending the car out, or just taking the time to spray it myself. My questions to you folks are as follows:

#1: Is there a detailer in North East Pa or Jersey that would like a whack at dealing with the car before I go for a repaint (keeping in mind I'm looking for chips/scratches/swirls removed)

#2 If not, would this be the place to ask about where to source Shwartz II?

[Braymond141]

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/vb3avatar/avatar104503_2.gif

Stop washing your car in those stupid booths. Those brushes are probably your whole problem.

[Drone]

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/vb3avatar/avatar104503_2.gif

Stop washing your car in those stupid booths. Those brushes are probably your whole problem.

Hmm, I love when people jump to conclusions. I've never touched a brush to the car...interesting that a brush could cause rock chips either way though. I do however spray it down in those booths over the winter months.

Go away :shifty

[illogik]

I had really good success with Dr. Colorchip on the road rash (with Sapphire Black). If the scratches are really deep (down to the metal) then you may need a respray; do you have any close-up shots of the swirls / damage?

[Drone]

I'm planning on taking some pictures tonight if I get home in time..there are 2 scratches and a couple chips that are through the paint totally.

[kevintb7]

rock chips happen with an old car. I have a ton on my front bumper and hood as well. Expect to pay quite a pit if you want those removed. It takes forever to make it look good(multiple days). you are probably better off with repainting the front bumper. As for the swirls a good detailer should be able to get them out. My z is a 97, and after I fully detailed it it was perfectly swirless.It will take MULTIPLE steps, hopefully you can find a good detailer.

[Braymond141]

Hmm, I love when people jump to conclusions. I've never touched a brush to the car...interesting that a brush could cause rock chips either way though. I do however spray it down in those booths over the winter months.

Go away :shifty

Did I say anything about brush chips? :rolleyes

If you don't use the booths to wash your car, then great, good job. However, if you're having people detail your car and months later you can't appreciate it up close... something is wrong.

Either your detailers, or your detailing sucks, or the follow up care is terrible.

If you're going to spend the time, money and effort to fix the issues then, find out what caused them to begin with.

If you want a lasting finish, you better know damn well how to maintain it.

[Bene36m3]

Hmm, I love when people jump to conclusions. I've never touched a brush to the car...interesting that a brush could cause rock chips either way though. I do however spray it down in those booths over the winter months.

Go away :shifty

The brushes cause the swirl marks(scratches in the clearcoat)

[kevintb7]

He said he sprays it down in the booths....Probably referring to one of those do it yourself heated touchless booths...WHICH ARE FINE to use as long as you dont touch any of their stuff to the car, given its not ideal he probably can't or doesn't want to wash it in his garage, I understand... Give the guy a break Im sure if he has read any other post on this board he knows that the brush car washes cause swirls.

Again my opinion if you want the car to be perfect again for the lowest price, have a body shop re paint the front bumper and hood if necessary. They may have to fix some deeper scratches (it depends get us some pictures....) then get it detailed. I don't know anyone in your area but I'm sure someone on this board does. A good detailer should be able to remove scratches and all the swirls. Then buy a lot of microfiber products if you don't have them already. Using a terry cloth towel or anything like that will cause swirls. I can recommend what to buy if you need it let me know.