Getting rid of carwash swirls

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Hi all

I'm hopefully buying an c180 (2005) next week from a dealer - but when I look at the paintwork, I can see fine scratches/swirls which I assume are a result of the previous owner taking it through those horrible automatic carwashes.

The swirls also look a lot more obvious on the diamond black models than on silver - which is a shame because I preferred the black one

Is there any way to remove these, or at least make the swirls less obvious?

Thanks in advance

 

[SG CL500]

Plenty of ways to get rid of virtually all swirl marks - your best bet is to find a professional detailer with the right tools to get it done - lots and lots of hard work if you try it by hand! Should cost <£200.

 

[Flash]

If buying from Dealer then after negotiating the best price for your deal then state that as part of the agreement for them to have the swirl marks removed as part of sale.

 

[glojo]

As an aside when was nano paint technology introduced onto the C-class range?

I go along with Flash, point out the swirls then give it the old hmmmmm!!!

There are some useful tips\advice in the bodywork section. 'Goldfish' is quite an expert on this subject.

Regards
John

 

[Flash]

As an aside when was nano paint technology introduced onto the C-class range?

On the W203 is was 2004 (summer June/July) when the face lift was launched.

 

[glojo]

On the W203 is was 2004 (summer June/July) when the face lift was launched.

Thanks very much,

John

 

[Midland45]

porter cable

You might like to do a search on this forum for "porter cable". This seems to be the ideal polisher for removing swirl marks from cars.

 

[mioba]

just use a good polish like autoglym super resin polish.

but as stated its something i would definately probe the dealer about. ask them to prep the thoroughly, or tell them you will go elsewhere.

they may polish it, but i douby they will wax it.


and remember avoid automatic car washes

 

[spaced]

So the swirls can definitely be gotten rid of can they? Is it a temporary solution, or are they banished forever?

I will definitely try to get the dealer to sort it out if they can be removed permenently - then I can get the black one.

Speaking of which - I dont suppose anyone has any tips for how to negotiate with car salesman? I find them really agressive - they all seem like wolves about to pounce. It doesn't help that I'm not what you would call 'experienced' in buying cars (and they can probably see that a mile off).

What kind of tricks do they try to use? How can I counter them? How much profit would a dealer be making on a second hand car (worth £18-20k)?

I'm soooo looking forward to owning my new merc - and soooooo dreading having to negotiate with a car salesman for it!

Thanks to all who replied before!

 

[GazCaff]

So the swirls can definitely be gotten rid of can they? Is it a temporary solution, or are they banished forever?

I will definitely try to get the dealer to sort it out if they can be removed permenently - then I can get the black one.

Speaking of which - I dont suppose anyone has any tips for how to negotiate with car salesman? I find them really agressive - they all seem like wolves about to pounce. It doesn't help that I'm not what you would call 'experienced' in buying cars (and they can probably see that a mile off).

What kind of tricks do they try to use? How can I counter them? How much profit would a dealer be making on a second hand car (worth £18-20k)?

I'm soooo looking forward to owning my new merc - and soooooo dreading having to negotiate with a car salesman for it!

Thanks to all who replied before!

I'm a technically a salesman (albeit in the flooring trade) as it is my majority role at work, although I rarely think of myself as a salesman.

My advice would be that although the salesman may come over as aggressive, do not become confrontational. Simply state what kind of deal you feel you would be happy with (realistically) and be prepared to walk away if you do not get what you want. If the salesman will not take your offer then leave them a contact number and walk away, if the money is right for them and they want to sell the car badly enough then they will contact you. We are getting towards the end of the month, which is always the best time to buy a car (sales targets).

Be prepared to be a little flexible in your bargaining but always remember there will always be another car.

 

[LeaUK]

Swirls will vanish if taken to someone who knows the trade. Had mine rotary polished earlier this summer and scratches far deeper than 'swirls' were cleanly removed.

Also, agree with the previous poster - search for 'porter cable' as should you wish to undertake the clean and polish yourself you will need an orbital polisher.

Lea

http://www.mbclub.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=27503&highlight=paint