Q&A for How to Use a Rubbing Compound

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Can you apply rubbing compound by hand?

wikiHow Staff Editor
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wikiHow Staff Editor

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Yes, but it will take a lot of effort to get the same results you would with an orbital buffer. Use firm pressure and buff the compound in using a clean microfiber towel, using clockwise circular motions. Wipe away the compound by buffing it again in the opposite direction using another microfiber towel. Always work in a shady area so the compound doesn’t dry out too quickly while you’re working.

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Question

What does a rubbing compound do?

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Rubbing compound is an abrasive, similar to sandpaper. It helps buff out scratches and other imperfections from the surface of your car’s paint.

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Question

Is rubbing compound bad for car paint?

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It can be if you aren’t careful. Before using rubbing compound, try using less aggressive techniques to touch up minor imperfections. For instance, a gentler polishing compound may do the trick, and it’s less likely to strip away the actual paint or the protective clear coat on top.

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Question

Can you just buy a new lens for the headlight?

Marta126

Community Answer

You can buy new lenses for headlights. It all depends on the model of the car if you want to replace the lens or just buy a new one. Some manufacturers use clip-on lenses where it is very easy to replace. Just simply undo the clips on the housing, replace the gasket if needed, and snap the new one on. Other manufactures use a sealed housing where it is much harder to replace. Replacement lenses for these kinds of headlight might also be much harder to find. These require lots of heat and careful separation of the lens from the housing. For this type of headlight, I would recommend just replacing it, unless it is aftermarket or very rare, because it will be much easier to do.

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Should I use rubbing compound on the damage area only or the whole parts (eg: door, hood)?

Community Answer

You can use rubbing compound on the whole vehicle, just make sure to not get it on black trim. After the rubbing compound, you'll want to go over the car/spot with a polishing compound to smooth and shine your paint.

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