Step 1: Select Correct Pad & Center on Backing Plate

Select a the most appropriate foam polish pad for the job.  A great choice is the CCS 6.5 inch White Polishing Pad, which is perfect for light polishing an cleaning.

Step 2: Apply Polish To Pad

Select a good pre-wax cleaner.  You can use Pinnacle Paintwork Cleansing Lotion, which is an excellent pre-wax cleanser.  This product goes on amazingly smooth and leaves an amazing shine.

Step 3: Distribute Polish On Work Area

Distribute the polish over the work area before turning on the polisher. If you don't, the polish will sling off of the pad when you do turn on the polisher. You can dab it, or smear it with the pad over the paint.

Step 4: Start Polish At Low Speed

Start the polisher at a low speed (2 or so on the dial). Get the polish loaded into the pad before increasing speed.

Step 5: Increase Speed and Work-in Polish

Work the polish into the paint. Keep the polisher flat, and apply just enough pressure to keep the pad in full contact. Use slow, smooth back-and-forth and up-and-down sweeping motions. Some dual action polishers will stop rotating if you apply too much pressure. Ease up on the polisher if this happens.

Step 6: Polish Until Film Is Nearly Gone

As you work the polish, the film will get lighter until only a slight haze remains. At this point you can stop and inspect your work. You can remove the remaining polish haze with a buffing towel or switch to a finishing pad.

Step 7: Switch To A Finishing Pad or Bonnet

You can use a finishing pad or a bonnet to remove the final polish residue. The bonnet can be placed over the finishing pad or a lambswool pad for cushioning. Some people prefer doing this step by hand with a microfiber towel.

Step 8: Remove Dust With A Detailing Spray & Buffing Towel

The polishing pad will leave dry dust on the surface. Use a detailing spray and a soft microfiber buffing towel to wipe away the polish dust before waxing.

Step 9: Switch To A Finishing Pad For Waxing

After polishing, use a finishing pad to apply your favorite wax.  Liquid waxes are easy to apply, but you can also pop most paste waxes out of their jar.  Use a soft foam waxing pad to spread the wax over the paint. Work the wax in well (use a low speed). Then use a clean buffing bonnet to buff out the final finish.

Step 10: Cleanup Cracks & Crevices

After waxing, use soft detailing brushes to remove polish and wax residue from all cracks and crevices.

Step 11: Inspect Final Finish

After polishing and waxing, your final paint finish should be smooth, glossy and wet looking.