3 best car rubbing compounds

Car rubbing compounds are a type of automotive detailing product used for exterior care and car maintenance. They are designed to remove surface imperfections, scratches, oxidation, and other blemishes from a car's paintwork. Here's what you need to know about car rubbing compounds:

Purpose: Rubbing compounds are primarily used for paint correction and restoration. They help to eliminate minor to moderate scratches, swirl marks, water spots, and other surface defects, restoring the car's finish to a smooth and glossy state.
Types of Rubbing Compounds:
- Abrasive Compounds: These compounds contain abrasive particles that break down as they are worked into the paint. They are suitable for removing deeper scratches and imperfections but may require multiple steps and finer polishes for a high-gloss finish.
- All-in-One Compounds: These compounds combine abrasives and polishing agents, making them more user-friendly for beginners.They can remove moderate imperfections while leaving a polished finish in a single step.
Application:
- Rubbing compounds are typically applied using a buffing machine or by hand, depending on the product and the extent of the imperfections.
- Before application, the car's surface should be cleaned and free of contaminants to prevent further damage during the rubbing process.
Buffing Process:
- When using a machine, apply the rubbing compound to a clean pad and work it into the affected area with slow, overlapping passes.
- For hand application, use a clean, soft cloth or applicator pad to rub the compound in a circular or back-and-forth motion.
Wipe Off Residue: After applying the compound and achieving the desired correction, wipe off any remaining residue with a clean microfiber cloth.
Polishing and Waxing: After using a rubbing compound, it's recommended to follow up with a finer polishing compound and then apply a wax or sealant to protect the newly corrected paint and maintain its shine.
Safety Precautions:
- Wear protective gear like gloves and safety glasses when using rubbing compounds.
- Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding application, drying times, and safety precautions.
Paint Type Compatibility: Different rubbing compounds are designed for specific paint types (e.g., clear coat, single-stage paint). Ensure you choose a rubbing compound suitable for your car's paint to prevent damage.
Frequency: Rubbing compounds should be used sparingly because they remove a small layer of paint. Only use them when necessary to correct specific imperfections.
Final Touch: After using rubbing compounds, it's essential to finish with a quality wax or sealant to protect the paint and maintain its appearance over time.

In summary, car rubbing compounds are a valuable tool for improving the appearance of a car's exterior by removing surface imperfections and restoring a smooth, glossy finish. When used correctly and with care, they can help keep your vehicle looking its best.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best car 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.

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!