How to Restore Faded Car Paint (with Pictures)

Cars with original factory paint jobs have thin paint. Automotive makers use thin coats of paint to be economical, but this causes the paint to fade after a few years of being exposed to the elements. Older cars fade fast because they did not have clear coats to protect the base paint. If your car is faded, learn hot to restore faded car paint and get it shiny and looking like new.

Things You'll Need

  • Car soap
  • Sponge
  • Orbital buffer
  • Buffing pad
  • Rag
  • Polishing pad
  • Liquid rubbing compound
  • Car polish

Wash your car with car wash soap and a soft sponge. Remove all dirt, mud and buildup of any kind. Rinse the car with water and allow it to dry completely before moving to the next step.

Apply liquid rubbing compound to the buffing pad on the buffer. Start at the front of the hood of the car and slowly work your way to the back of the hood, then to the top of the car and then to the trunk. Next, start at the front of the front fender and work down the side of the car until you reach the rear bumper. Repeat on the other side of the car. Press lightly on the buffer, but don't push down too hard or it will burn through the paint.

Wipe off all excess rubbing compound with a soft, clean rag. Change the buffing pad on the buffer to a polishing pad. Apply car polish directly to the polishing pad. Begin to polish the car's surface in the same manner as the rubbing compound was applied. Wipe excess polish away with a dry, clean rag.