ThePizzaMan

So recently I've rescued an all stock CRX! Need to do something with the aged/ Arizona sun burned paint. The clear is cloudy on the hood, and it has other dull spots. What exactly should I do to bring this paint back to life short of re-painting?

Rubbing compounds? Clay bars? Waxes?

I'm lost in this department... any help is welcome.

Thx! =]

WhiteSlips

Wash first obviously, then clay bar to remove any caked on dirt, road debris, tree sap etc. Try some Meguiars fine cut cleaner on a random orbital buffer so you don't burn through what little clear is probably left. If the fine cut cleaner isn't cutting enough, step up to the next cut level (medium cut cleaner) and go from there. Make sure once you get done with the cutting process that you use a good paint sealant and wax or it will just fade right back to the way it was again.



Then



Then try this first-



If that isn't enough cut, try this-


If the medium cut works, follow up with fine cut to smooth it out a little.

After you are done cutting, Griots paint sealant is affordable and works well.



Follow that up with a decent wax and you should be good to go.

I like Meguiars professional series Yellow wax.

RoadRage212

Some pics would help a great deal when looking for advice on helping out your paint.

Using any cutting agent on clear that is possibly failing could serve to speed up the process of clear coat failure and do more harm than good.

dog2525

I don't know much about detailing but I would say that if the clear is flaking off, its time for a respray.

WhiteSlips

This is true also. Post some pictures.

salaamq

If the clear is starting to peel, you may be able to correct it. My trunk lid came out nicely when I did that with just some buffing compound and polish.
That still didn't fix the problem of the trunk lid being faded pink.
Clay bars, buffing, and polishing help bring back the finish, but not necessarily the color.
Long story short, if the paint is faded in color, you most likely won't be able to get the color back 100%. If you paint it, it should look brand new if you take your time.

98civdx

I agree with what white slips said.

if you don't have a buffer check out the Griots 6''. IMO, it's great for the price!