Polishing Car Paint After Wet Sanding: Showroom Gloss (1500–3000 Grit Guide)

After applying clear coat, wet sanding is often required to remove orange peel, dust nibs, and imperfections. Polishing afterward restores depth and gloss, making the paint look like it just rolled out of the showroom. This guide covers grit progression and polishing steps for flawless car paint finishes.

Why Wet Sand & Polish Car Paint?

Wet sanding levels surface texture, while polishing refines the finish to a mirror-like gloss. Without polishing, the sanded surface remains hazy and dull.

Best Tools for Car Paint Polishing

• 9x11 in silicon carbide wet/dry sandpaper sheets
• Soft sanding block or orbital sander
• Polishing compound and finishing polish
• Dual-action polisher or rotary buffer
• Microfiber towels

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 1500 grit: Begin smoothing orange peel or imperfections.
• 2000 grit: Refine scratches from coarse sanding.
• 2500 grit: Enhance clarity and smoothness.
• 3000 grit: Final sanding before polishing.

Step-by-Step: Wet Sanding & Polishing Car Paint

1. Soak sandpaper. Submerge sheets in water for 10–15 minutes before sanding.
2. Start with 1500 grit. Wet sand imperfections evenly. Use 1500 Grit (25-pack).
3. Move to 2000 grit. Smooth surface further. Try 2000 Grit (50-pack).
4. Refine with 2500 grit. Prepare for final polish. Stock up on 2500 Grit (100-pack).
5. Finish with 3000 grit. Light sanding for a pre-polish surface.
6. Apply compound. Use a dual-action polisher with cutting compound to restore gloss.
7. Polish & protect. Finish with fine polish and optional ceramic coating.

Special Cases

For fresh paint, wait at least 30 days before wet sanding. For older finishes, measure clear coat thickness to avoid sanding through layers.

Pro Tips

• Always keep the surface wet while sanding.
• Use light, even pressure to avoid sanding through clear coat.
• Check progress often by drying a small section.
• Work panel by panel for consistency.

Aftercare

• Wash car with pH-neutral soap only.
• Wax or seal paint regularly for protection.
• Avoid harsh chemicals that strip protection.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand to 3000 grit? Yes, for the smoothest base before polishing.
• Can I polish without sanding? Only for light defects—deep orange peel requires sanding first.
• Will sanding damage clear coat? Not if done correctly with proper grit sequence and pressure.

Watch & Learn

For professional car paint results, explore our Super Fine Sandpaper Collection.