11 best automotive rubbing compounds

Automotive rubbing compounds are products used in the car care industry to restore and enhance the appearance of a vehicle's exterior finish. They are commonly used in processes like paint correction and polishing to remove imperfections, scratches, oxidation, and other blemishes from a car's paintwork. Here are some key points about automotive rubbing compounds:

  1. Purpose: Rubbing compounds are designed to remove defects and imperfections from a vehicle's paint surface, such as swirl marks, water spots, light scratches, and oxidation. They can also be used to restore faded or dull paint.

  2. Types: There are different types of rubbing compounds available, including traditional abrasive compounds and modern, less abrasive ones. The choice of compound depends on the severity of the imperfections and the type of paint being worked on.

  3. Abrasiveness: Rubbing compounds contain abrasive particles that work to level the surface by removing a thin layer of paint. The degree of abrasiveness varies between products, and it's crucial to choose the right one to avoid over-polishing and damaging the paint.

  4. Application: These compounds are typically applied using a buffing or polishing machine.However, some can also be applied by hand with the use of a microfiber or foam applicator pad.

  5. Process: The process of using a rubbing compound generally involves several steps:

    • Cleaning the vehicle's surface to remove dirt and contaminants.
    • Applying the rubbing compound to the affected areas.
    • Using a machine or hand buffing to work the compound into the paint, gradually removing imperfections.
    • Wiping off any residue and inspecting the paint.
    • Following up with finer polishing compounds and wax or sealant for a smooth, glossy finish.
  6. Safety: When working with rubbing compounds, it's essential to wear protective gear such as safety goggles and gloves. Adequate ventilation is also important as compound dust can be harmful when inhaled.

  7. Compatibility: Ensure that the rubbing compound you choose is compatible with your vehicle's paint type (e.g., clear coat, single-stage paint) and color. Some compounds are designed specifically for certain types of paint finishes.

  8. Final Steps: After using a rubbing compound, it's recommended to follow up with a polishing compound to refine the finish and remove any hazing or swirl marks. Finally, applying a wax or paint sealant helps protect the newly restored surface.

  9. Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep your car's exterior looking its best. Washing, waxing, and using protective coatings can help maintain the shine and protection of the paint.

  10. Professional Help: For severe paint issues or if you're not confident in your abilities, it's best to consult a professional auto detailer who has experience with using rubbing compounds.

Always read the product labels and follow the manufacturer's instructions when using rubbing compounds to achieve the best results and avoid damaging your vehicle's paint finish.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best automotive rubbing compounds on the market
  

Meguiar's G17220 Ultimate Compound, Color & Clarity Restorer, Scratch & Swirl Remover, 20 Fl oz

Meguiar's

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This revolutionary product dramatically reduces the time and effort required to restore abused or neglected paint finishes. Unlike traditional compounds that can leave behind fine scratches and haze, Meguiar's Ultimate Compound cuts so fast and leaves the finish looking so good; it's hard to believe possible. The secret is Meguiar's exclusive micro-abrasive technology created for state-of-the-art products for body shops and detailers. Ultimate Compound works quickly to remove below surface defects and restore color and clarity without scratching or swirling.

  • REMOVE PAINT DEFECTS: The ultimate product for removing oxidation, scratches, water spots, and blemishes without scratching
  • BEST CAR SCRATCH REMOVER: Cuts as fast as harsh abrasives restoring surface clarity without scratching or swirling
  • SAVES TIME: The clear coat safe formula dramatically reduces the time and effort to restore abused or neglected paint finishes
  • STUNNING FINISH: Exclusive micro-abrasive technology leaves a "like new" finish and adds gloss in one easy step
  • SAFE FOR CLEAR COAT: Safe and effective on clear coat and single stage paints, and can be applied by hand or dual action polisher like Meguiar's MT300 Dual Action Polisher

User questions & answers

Question: Will this stuff work for removing oxidation on my red, presumably plastic, car bumper
Answer: They both offer equal UV protection.
Question: Will this remove tree pollen that sat too long on a black stage two paint job
Answer: For best results, use between 55-85 degrees F. Do not apply at or below 32 degrees F. Colder temperatures or extremely humid temperatures can increase your cure time.
Question: I got some Poly+Stain droplets on the side of my car. Can this product be used to safely get those off without damaging my cars paint finish
Answer: Yes, you can absolutely use the Ceramic Wash with Flex Wax! All of our Washes are compatible with Flex Wax.
Question: Does this remove hard water spots on black paint
Answer: Flex Wax can absolutely be used to maintain your HS Ceramic Coating! It is a great topper!

Product features

The best compound for the ultimate results

Meguiar’s Ultimate Compound is the ultimate paint cleaner for removing below surface defects such as light to moderate oxidation, scratches, water spots and stains. With Meguiar’s exclusive micro-abrasive technology it cuts quickly for permanently defect removal, restores color and clarity, and won’t haze or mar like a traditional compound. This clear coat safe compound also dramatically reduces the time and effort to restore paint while obtaining results that surpass the performance of both conventional rubbing and polishing compounds. Ultimate Compound quickly and easily removes paint defects while maximizing shine and gloss to get your paint ready for wax protection.

How to prepare the paint before applying Ultimate Compound

  • Wash and dry the vehicle first. Always use a pH balanced car wash soap, such as Meguiar’s Ultimate Wash and Wax, which gently cleans your car’s paint, adds gloss and shine, and leaves additional wax protection behind each time you wash.

Consumer

Meguiar’s has several lines of products designed for all aspects of at-home interior and exterior car care. With multiple product families, every customer is sure to find the right product for them, with options from the premium Ultimate line, Gold Class line, Classic Meguiar’s products, and more. From headlight care, to interior detailing, to all five steps of maintaining your paint (wash, clean, polish, protect, maintain), Meguiar’s has a premium product for every aspect of care.

Mirror Glaze

Meguiar’s Mirror Glaze products are ideal for the true car care professional. With products ranging from aggressive Detailing Clay, to Swirl Remover, various Compounds, Sealants, and more, detailing enthusiasts, professional detailers, and body shops professionals can find exactly what they need to get that show car shine. When walking around at some of your favorite car shows, such as the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, you’ll find that many trust the Meguiar’s Mirror Glaze line to get their cars ready for the big day.

Detailer

Meguiar’s Detailer products are the perfect solution for anyone running a garage, washing and detailing several cars a week, and commercial car washes. With quality concentrate product provided in large containers (1-gallon and 5-gallon for many products), customers won’t be running to the store every other day for more of their favorite cleaning and detailing products. Meguiar’s also offers labeled and color-coded spray bottles for users to dilute the Detailer product in and use with ease.

Marine / RV

Meguiar’s Marine & RV products are ideal for boat and RV owners of all kinds. All the basic care products, such as Gel Wash, Vinyl and Rubber Cleaner, and Quik Wax, are included in the Classic Marine and RV line. For the most extreme watercrafts, Meguiar’s formulated the Extreme Marine line, with Water Spot Detailer, Multi-Surface Cleaner, and Vinyl & Rubber Protectant, in a sleek, spherical bottle. For your premium vessel, you can also look to Meguiar’s Flagship line to beautify and protect your boat.

No.7 Heavy Duty Rubbing Compound - 10 Fl Oz - Cleans and Restores - Removes Deep Scratches and Stains - Restores Shine to Dull Finishes

NO.7

Based on 678 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Heavy duty paste cleans and restores very dull finishes.

  • Package Dimensions: 14.94 L x 4.31 H x 10.06 W (inches)
  • Package Weight : 10 pounds
  • Country of Origin : United States
  • Part Number: 08610-EACH

User questions & answers

Question: I used wd40 to remove tree sap from a small area on my car's trunk lid and it left a dull spot on the paint. Will this restore it
Answer: The bottom right corner of the front of the jar says "Great for clear coats."
Question: Is this clear coat safe
Answer: Mine came with a sponge applicator under the yellow plastic top.
Question: Can anyone tell me what color this rubbing compound is? I have a container but its a couple years old and its a dark orange/rust color
Answer: Yes, works well but you must clean up any residue in cracks.
Question: what is the difference between the rubbing compound and polishing compound
Answer: Not necessarily. I had a hard time buffing this wax by hand because i had put it on too thick (being inexperienced). Once I was more accustomed to putting on wax thinly, even traditional cream-in-a-tub wax like the Collinite 915 I am currently using was pretty easy on the arms. How thin? Thin enough so that the wax just appears as an oily sheen on the paint surface. Waiting time also matters. Wait just enough till the wax visibly starts to haze all over the waxed section, but not any longer or the wax will get too hard. You'd want to wax and buff a, say, 2x2 or 3x3 ft section at a time to be better able to react to the hazing/drying time of the wax.

Meguiar's G18016 Clear Coat Safe Rubbing Compound - 16 oz.

Meguiar's

Based on 515 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Meguiar’s Clear Coat Safe Rubbing Compound is a scratch remover and paint cleaner that removes oxidation, stains, scratches and other below-surface defects while reviving dull and neglected surfaces. This formula’s unique abrasives produce a clear finish and clean surface without scouring, scratching or hazing like traditional compounds. Clear coat safe compound is safe and effective on all glossy paints and clear coats (not for use on flat, matte or satin finishes). For hand application only.

  • Rubbing compound safely and quickly removes oxidation, scratches, stains and other below-surface defects
  • This scratch remover and paint cleaner also revives dull and neglected surfaces
  • Unique abrasives produce a clean surface and clear finish without scouring, hazing or scratching like traditional compounds
  • Clear coat safe compound can be used effectively and safely on all glossy paints and clear coats (not for use on flat, matte or satin finishes)
  • Apply by hand only

User questions & answers

Question: What the difference between this and the “ultimate compound
Answer: Ultimate Compound is a little more effective and will leave a nicer finish.
Question: Will this remove tree sap stains
Answer: It will not remove the tree sap itself but if there is a stain/etching left behind on the paint after removing the tree sap this may work. You should also consider out Ultimate Compound as it is a little more effective.
Question: Does the compound stay intact after a car wash, or does it need to be applied constantly? not much ojp with clear coat but don't want to sand if it do
Answer: Not sure what is meant by "stay intact"? This is designed to remove light paint defects and then be wiped off immediately. It does not leave anything behind after use.
Question: I have and off white car and on the front of the hood I have some dark spots from using to strong of a rubbing compound. Will this help me with them
Answer: It very well may help but please also consider trying our Ultimate Compound as a safe and effective method for removing these types of defects in paint.

3D One - Scratch & Swirl Remover Rubbing Compound & Finishing Polish for True Car Paint Correction & Detailing 16oz.

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price
  • Hybrid High Grade Rubbing Compound & Finishing Polish
  • One Step Scratch & Swirl Remover with Sealant Protection
  • Delivers True Paint Correction
  • Removes Many Moderate to Heavy Surface Imperfections on All Paint Colors
  • Can be Applied by Hand, Polisher or Buffer

User questions & answers

Question: Which pads are more compatible with this product? Microfiber or Foam pads
Answer: I have had it for a long time and I still have some in the can. It depends if you’re abusing by spraying unnecessarily. To me it has last.
Question: How well does this perform while working in direct sunlight
Answer: Two keys per lock. Do not work on both.
Question: This or Maguire's 205 polish
Answer: im guessing not
Question: Does this have a shelf life
Answer: This offer is for EXTENDED FIT (or extra-large) wheel spacing. When comparing prices, be sure you are comparing for the same size X-chocks. The “regular” x-chocks fit up to 10” wheel spacing. These x-chocks fit wheels 10” to 17” apart. Perhaps this information explains the price difference you have found. Good luck to you.

Carfidant Scratch and Swirl Remover - Ultimate Car Scratch Remover - Polish & Paint Restorer - Easily Repair Paint Scratches, Scratches, Water Spots! Car Buffer Kit

Carfidant

Based on 22 reviews Check latest price

Product description

CARFIDANTcare Ultimate Scratch & Swirl Remover



Removes Scratches & Swirls

Safe & Easy to apply by hand or orbital!

Patented Formula safe on all paint finishes





About Ultimate Scratch & Swirl Remover

Our Scratch & Swirl Remover is designed to save your car from small scratches, swirls and other marks that come at the hands of careless people and the environment! It is easy to use and can be applied by hand or with an orbital. (It is designed to work on small scratches, if you can feel the scratch while running a fingernail through it, it may be too deep.)

  • EASY SCRATCH & SWIRL REPAIR - If your car has light scratches, swirls, or other marks - you can easily fix that with our Scratch & Swirl Remover Kit! Using the included buffer pad, our specially formulated compound will allow you to easily remove and "erase" years of wear and tear from your vehicles paint and overall appearance! (Please note if you have very deep scratches that can be easily felt with the tip of your fingernail the product may not help as much.)
  • ULTIMATE PAINT RESTORER - Not only will this remove swirls and scratches, it will restore the gloss and shine of your paint and bring it back to its original brilliance! The special rubbing compound will remove water spots, oxidation and other contaminants from your paint! Easily buff it all out by hand with our included buffer pad!
  • PREMIUM CHEMICALS - We formulate all our products to ensure they are the best! Professional grade, but easy enough for anyone to use! We use only the absolute best chemicals and ensure there are no unnecessary color dyes or scents! You get the best cutting polishing compound in a specifically formulated formula with a kit that lets you go right to work!
  • SAFE FOR ALL PAINT COLORS - Our Ultimate Car Paint Scratch Repair Kit is safe to use on all paints and colors. You can safely use it on any clearcoat, single stage, or multi stage paint!
  • MADE IN USA - CARFIDANT 100% SATISFACTION - Don't take our word that this is the best in car detailing products and car cleaning supplies, if you are not 100% satisfied we will refund you in full! We are professionals! We are enthusiasts! We spent years developing our professional automotive detailing products and believe in them 100%! We use them. Our friends use them. If you are not 100% satisfied with any of our products, we will give you a full refund! Send us a message!

User questions & answers

Question: Do you have to own an electric buffer
Answer: I used the sponge that comes with the product. I think if you have one, you can use it, but you don’t have to have one.
Question: Can this be used with a 3" buffer
Answer: Yes, you can use this with any buffer for best results.
Question: Does this product removes superficial keys scratches
Answer: Yes, this will definitely help you with key scratches. Do note, that if they are very deep, and you can feel them with your fingernail, it will not be able to correct it 100%. If they are smaller scratches and you do not feel them with your fingernail, this should definitely take care of it!
Question: Where is this manufactured
Answer: The bottle states Made in USA! Happy to see that!

3M 05973 Rubbing Compound - 1 Quart

3M

Based on 498 reviews Check latest price

Product description

3M Rubbing Compound quickly removes sand scratches, oxidation, coarse swirl marks and water spots. Our liquid compound leaves minimal swirl marks and is safe for clear coats, lacquer and enamel paint finishes. This car rubbing compound makes dull and tired looking auto body finishes look new and glossy once again. It revives the luster and shine that makes a car glisten out on a sunny day. Our automotive rubbing compound removes sand scratches and smooths surfaces, making your car look amazing. Compounding removes the scratch pattern left by abrasives in previous sanding applications. While smoothing the surface, this product also removes oxidation, water spots and other stains and blemishes.

  • Compound removes scratches caused by sanding
  • Formula effectively removes oxidation, stains and surface blemishes
  • Application creates a lustrous shine with minimal swirl marks or holograms
  • Fast-cut formulation reduces compounding time
  • Safe for clear coats, lacquer and enamel paint finishes

User questions & answers

Question: do you think this will take off dried soap circles on my vette without wet sanding
Answer: No. Cerium Oxide is too soft and breaks down too easily to polish sapphire. Polishing requires a compound that consists of particles that are as hard or harder than the surface you need to polish. Therefore, you will need Aluminum Oxide (a.k.a. sapphire) or a diamond polish to get scratches out of sapphire. However, you will need to purchase a series of grits (i.e. size of polishing particles) to remove a single scratch. The issue is that the size of the grit corresponds roughly to half of the depth (a hard thing to measure) of the scratch you need to remove. The first round is with a course grit that will introduce scratches over the entire surface of your watch face, and polishes the entire surface down to the level of the original scratch. You then proceed to finer and finer grit sizes to remove each layer of scratches until you arrive at an optically smooth surface. This process is not only difficult and time consuming, but you will need to remove the sapphire window so that you keep the face flat as you polish, and not damage the other parts of the watch. If you focus only on the area of the scratch, you will create some kind of rounded/curved surface. This glass polishing compound uses Cerium Oxide which works on glass because: 1. Glass is relatively soft (compared to other materials like sapphire, etc.) and 2. Cerium Oxide breaks down into finer grits as it is used.
Question: Is it work by hand or polisher
Answer: Hi Peter I've never used the product you mentioned so not able to compare the two. The 3m product has never let me down.
Question: Will it work on Aluminum
Answer: Worked great on my iPhone
Question: I have a corian countertop and granite countertops, so do I still need to use the granite sealer after or before this product, or this works as sealer
Answer: The product did not work for us. A painter had scratched the glass of french doors while preparing to paint them. It may have removed the scratch somewhat, but left a blurry window.We ended up replacing the glass

Product features

3M Rubbing Compound

3M Rubbing Compound quickly removes sand scratches, oxidation, coarse swirl marks and water spots. This liquid compound leaves minimal swirl marks and is safe for clear coats, lacquer and enamel paint finishes. This car rubbing compound makes dull and tired looking auto body finishes look new and glossy once again.

Details:

3M Super Duty Rubbing Compound, 39004, 1 pt (16 fl oz/473 mL)

3M

Based on 223 reviews Check latest price

Product description

3M Super Duty Rubbing Compound is an aggressive compound that removes 1000 and finer sand scratches on all types of paint surfaces and gelcoats. Our compound remains wet on the job with little or no mess, maintains high rate of cut with constant pressure and buffs to high gloss with minimum effort. It can be used by hand or machine.

  • Economical liquid compound delivers a high rate of cut
  • Compound removes 1000 and finer sand scratches
  • Removes oxidation
  • Formula remains wet for a long time and continues to cut with medium pressure
  • Compound may be applied by hand or machine

User questions & answers

Question: can I use either to remove fine scratches ,on glass top/ceramic stove top
Answer: Hello, this solely depending on the condition of the lens, other steps may be need prior to using the 3M 39004 Super Duty Rubbing Compound will work on plastic lens. Please contact us at 877-666-2277 option 2 to connect with one of our product and application specialist.
Question: What is the difference between super duty and perfect it rubbing compounds
Answer: I am not familiar with 711-G, but this is what my husband uses on our boats and it works great. We've had very chalky through lightly chalky and it worked on them all. Try it, you won't be disappointed.
Question: Can this be used to restore cloudy headlight lens
Answer: Rince with hot water working out the excess wax buy hand and wring. let air dry don't seal the baggie it will mold!
Question: Years back I used to polish my boat with 711-G and liked it. Does anyone know how this compares, like which is more aggressive
Answer: No worries about scratches as long as the applicator is kept clean and stored properly between uses. Surface prep is crucial. Clay or clay mit with lots of lubricity after washing. Sonax Paint Cleaner will remove anything else that's left behind. I use the Sonax applicator almost exclusively for Sonax Poly Net Shield. Anything after that is applied with a soft foam applicator.
Question: Is the sponge cleanable or will just storing it in a baggy between uses work
Answer: I used this to apply on ny 16 wrx, did the entire car with 1 sponge
Question: This sponge won't cause swirls or scratches
Answer: If you're using sonax sealant it says to apply to dry, cool paint. If it gets so dirty that you have to wash it, you should clean the car more thoroughly beforehand. if you are getting too much dirt on the sponge (and you've done a really good wash job), it's probably time to clay bar if you're a stickler for quality. Short of it, if you seal with a dirty sponge, you run the risk of scratching paint due to debris. If your sponge is getting too dirty during seal, you should probably clean more thoroughly before sealing. One sponge lasts me the whole car (new or old) It will get discolored on older cars, but grit or water is not good for paint/sealant respectively
Question: I may use these for applying sonax 223300 polymer net shield. better than meguiar's x3070 foam pads? how many sponges needed for an average-sized car
Answer: yes, Work one step a time. will look like just new fresh paint. Use the pen first
Question: if you need to clean sponge while your using it can you wash it and use it damp
Answer: Not worth the money

Product features

SONAX - Premium German Car Care Products Since 1950

SONAX is a worldwide car care brand manufacturing premium products for optimum maintenance, protection and rejuvenation of vehicles. With 70 years of continuous research and development SONAX car care products that last longer, perform better and shine brighter than the competition.

The ever expanding line of SONAX car car products includes car waxes, interior and exterior cleaners, tire gels, vehicle paint cleaners, auto shampoo and more.

Sonax Car Detailing Application Sponge

The Sonax Application Sponge is versatile and durable - Made for applying everything from polishes and waxes to a tire gel.

The Sonax Application Sponge can be used on virtually every surface of your car, including tires, trim, rubber, plastic, metal, plastics, vinyl, leather and paint

Finely Pored for Perfect Application

The finely pored yellow foam side is delicate enough to apply waxes and sealants yet durable enough to apply tire gels.

Reinforced & Durable Sponge

The thick white foam reinforces the application sponge making it more durable. This gives you better grip, and does not allow the product to reach your hand.

3M Super Duty Rubbing Compound

3M Super Duty Rubbing Compound is an aggressive compound that removes 1000 and finer sand scratches on all types of paint surfaces and gelcoats. This compound remains wet on the job with little or no mess, maintains high rate of cut with constant pressure and buffs to high gloss with minimum effort. It can be used by hand or machine.

Details:

Mothers 08612 Professional Rubbing Compound - 12 oz.

Mothers

Based on 322 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Mothers Professional Rubbing Compound uses the same industry-proven formulas found in body shops worldwide to give you a showroom new finish, without the guesswork. Recondition your paint from normal wear and tear, buff fresh paint after color sanding, or even improve your factory applied paint finish, especially clear coats. Rubbing compound works with your favorite buffer to quickly cut through water spots, and effortlessly remove heavy oxidation, car wash scratches and other defects. Designed for the professional detailer, but simple enough for anyone, Mothers streamlines paint correction to give you brilliant color, enhanced gloss, unmatched depth, and a perfectly prepared surface, ready for waxing.

  • MOTHERS professional rubbing compound uses the same industry-proven formulas found in body shops worldwide to give you a showroom new finish, without the guesswork
  • Rubbing compound works with your favorite buffer to quickly cut through water spots, and effortlessly remove heavy oxidation, car wash scratches and other defects
  • Recondition your paint from normal wear and tear, buff fresh paint after color sanding, or even improve your factory applied paint finish, especially clear coats
  • Designed for the professional detailer, but simple enough for anyone
  • Convenient 12 ounce size

User questions & answers

Question: Have you tried this on frosty headlight plastic lens
Answer: 1 & Done Compound does not have graphene.
Question: Does this product contain or release any crystalline silica dust when used? can you add a link to an msds
Answer: If you are looking to polish out the haze on headlights and/or tail lights, then yes. I used to to remove the haze/oxidiation on the Subaru in my review. Just take note, this has NO protective properties and the headlights or taillights will need to be coated in a sealer or clear tint to prevent them from oxidizing again (and rather quickly too).
Question: Is this recommended for removing orange peel and leveling paint after a touch up
Answer: Paint correction with One & Done is a car care activity that is not designed to be done on a regular basis, only when needed.
Question: difference between heavy duty? i tried steps 1-3 products and did not get good results
Answer: Yes by hand, but the effort you’ll give is absolutely ridiculous to get any kind of result. The Subaru I did had upwards of 80% defect removal using it.

HD CUT Heavy Duty Rubbing Compound [NA-HDC128], 1 Gallons

Based on 61 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Nano skin HD cut is a super fast acting compound that removes 1000 to 1500 grit sanding marks, heavy oxidation and other serious paint imperfections and defects from all types automotive paint surfaces. It contains no silicone, no wax and no fillers.

  • Package Dimensions: 14 L x 9 H x 13 W (inches)
  • Package Weight : 32 pounds
  • Country of Origin : United States
  • Part number: NA-HDC128

User questions & answers

Question: Will this compound work good on a fiberglass RV body with heavy oxidation without leaving marks
Answer: Yes
Question: Will this compound work good on a fiberglass RV body with heavy oxidation without leaving marks
Answer: Depends on your settings- the finer, the longer. I never time it, I only need a couple of cups for my bread, that takes about a minute or two.

Malco Tru Grit - Heavy Duty Buffing and Polishing Compound for Cars/Automotive Paint Correction and Detailing/Removes 1000-1500 Grit Sand Scratches / 32 Oz. (120032)

Based on 196 reviews Check latest price
  • REMOVE DEEP SCRATCHES: Use Tru-Grit to easily remove deep sand scratches & heavy oxidation and environmental paint damage on your car or vehicle.
  • BUFFING & POLISHING FOR CARS: Advanced formula with special diminishing abrasives aggressively buffs and polishes most vehicles painted surfaces. Removes the TOUGHEST STAINS!
  • EASY CLEAN-UP: Contains no waxes, silicones or fillers. Water-based formula cleans up easily.
  • HEAVY DUTY FORMULA: Malco Tru-Grit is formulated for removing 1000-grit and finer sand scratches from both fully-cured and 24-hour-old high solids and standard clears, making it the best choice for you!
  • VERSATILE COMPOUND: Can be used to remove scratches, oxidation, and paint defects on all automotive and marine finishes as well as on industrial coatings.

User questions & answers

Question: Scratches on a windshield
Answer: It works as long as you have a good polish to use after it I would do a small spot first to see how your paint reacts
Question: Is this a good choice for buffing the corrosion off of aluminum wheels? The clear coat is gone and the wheels have oxidation
Answer: The user affects the clear coat. It does the same job in half the time. If you are experienced you can put out twice Volume. Very aggressive. 1200 grit wet sanding quickly disappears with this Product. We have 13 techs and knock out hundreds of panels every week. If you don’t have the pressure stick with the Meguiars.
Question: How does this product work on newer black cars that have clear coat scratches
Answer: Hi John! Thank you for your question. No, the 3M 39004 Super Duty Rubbing Compound would not be the appropriate product for your application. We would suggest contacting your stove manufacturer for a product recommendation.
Question: How does this compare to meguiar's ultimate compound as far as aggressiveness. i don't want it to affect my clear coat
Answer: Super duty compound is for really heavy duty rubbing out. It should only be used if nothing else will work. It can be used on gel oat that has not been painted. Perfect it is for polishing not rubbing out. Perfect it can be used on paint or final polishing after rubbing out

Product features

Paint Correction

Compounds and polishes that remove blemishes, swirls, and scratches from automotive painted finishes and produce a lasting shine.

Paint Protection

Automotive waxes and ceramic coatings that enhance surface shine and add lasting protection from harmful environmental conditions.

Exterior Cleaning & Detailing

Automotive washes, cleaning solutions, and degreasers that remove grime, dirt, bugs, and grease to enhance vehicle appearance.

Interior Cleaners, Conditioners & Protectants

Cleaners and dressings for removing dirt and stains, and condition/protect leather, vinyl, plastic, carpet and upholstery.

Interior & Exterior Dressings

Water-based and solvent-based dressings that add protection and shine to vehicle's interior and exterior leather, vinyl, rubber and plastic surfaces.

Tools & Accessories

Premium microfibers, chamois, brushes, buffing pads and more for vehicle detailing and cleaners that maintain tool performance.

Vehicle Care Kits

All-in-one, specialized automotive detailing kits for maintaining a vehicle's interior and exterior appearance.

Product Catalog

Shop our line of vehicle appearance and care products - available in the Malco Automotive Store.

3M Perfect-It Rubbing Compound, 06085, 1 qt (32 fl oz/946 mL)

Perfect-It

Based on 594 reviews Check latest price

Product description

3M Perfect-It Rubbing Compound combines refinement with strength where you need it most, ideal for removing defects before applying polish to boat hulls and other watercraft surfaces. This rubbing compound cuts fast, reduces sling, works on all gelcoats and paints and leaves a consistent finish ready for polishing. This high-performance boat rubbing compound quickly removes sand scratches and other defects left from hull sanding. It’s part of a complete range of surface enhancement products and systems drawn from decades of mineral and chemical technology. They include 3M Perfect-It Machine Polish, 3M Perfect-It Ultrafine Machine Polish and 3M Perfect-It compounding pads. For best results, use with 3M Perfect-It Foam Compounding Pad 05706, 3M Perfect-It Wool Compounding Pad 05753, or 3M Perfect-It Low Linting Wool Pad PN33279.

  • 3M Perfect-It Rubbing Compound swiftly removes sand scratches and surface defects
  • 3M's best performing, fastest cutting compound also leaves the finest finish
  • Use with 3M Perfect-It Compounding Pads
  • Available in 1 quart, 1 gallon or 16 ounces to accommodate project needs

User questions & answers

Question: Will this remove scratches of a black car
Answer: I have not noticed that it leaves anything but then I do a cloth polish wipe on the surface after the polishing so it there is, that wiping would likely take it off. I have not had issues with sealers on the paint. But I do not do that very often.
Question: Will this work for glass/ window oxidation removal
Answer: I don't see why not, but micro grit compounding usually works better with a buffer. If you use this by hand, make sure to do very small circles. Wax on, wax off.
Question: does it work on plastic
Answer: I'm sorry. We do not ship outside of the continental United States.
Question: how aggressive is the cut fine, medium, or deep
Answer: As long as the product doesn't freeze, they should last for years.

Product features

3M Perfect-It Rubbing Compound

3M Perfect-It Rubbing Compound is the highest-performing, fastest-cutting vehicle rubbing compound. Used with Perfect-It Compounding Pads (sold separately), this unique formula quickly removes P1200 grade and finer sand scratches.

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