Swirl marks are nothing more than micro-marring in the paint surface, alot of people over look swirl marks and say they cannot see them. Under a microscope they appear to be a scratch; however, you cannot feel the scratch with your fingers or finger nail. Even the best towels and wash tools cause some micro-marring.

The reason swirl marks and other micro marring show up so prominently on black and other dark colors is because the sides of the marring reflect light. When you polish, the edges are rounded and reduce reflection.

Incorrect use of a buffer or polisher is not the only cause of swirl marks. Every time you wash or wipe down your car you create micro-marring. The severity of the micro-marring depends on your tools and the contaminants present. Here are the ten most frequent causes of micro-marring (swirl marks):

1. Polishers/buffers with the incorrect pad or an untrained operator;
2. Harsh polishing compounds and paint cleaners;
3. Towels and applicators containing polyester threads;
4. A dirty chamois or a chamois that has not been properly maintained;
5. Wiping down a dusty or dirty car with a dry towel;
6. A dirty car duster or a car duster used on a car with too much dirt on the surface;
7. Not keeping your wash mitt or sponge properly rinsed;
8. Automated car washes with brushes and other wipers;
9. Not rinsing your car completely before washing, or not washing your car thoroughly before drying; and
10. Using a car cover when the car or the cover is not clean.

The most noticeable area for swirl marks is the bonnet and boot as the sun shines down on them. On dark-colored cars, they might also show up on the doors and fenders. Bright colors do not show swirl marks as well because they reflect more light. That doesn’t mean they don’t get swirl marks, they just show up more readily on dark colors. Black, of course, is the worst of all colors for displaying swirls and other imperfections.

Swirl marks can be removed by polishing. Polishing out swirl marks without a buffer is a lot of work. I recommend polishing your car one small section at a time so you can see the progress. (See Polishing Tutorials)

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