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Paint correction on black BMW - before and after

BBavarianGarage

@bavarian_garage

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Just finished a 2-stage paint correction on my black F30. The difference is insane.

Process:

  1. Full decontamination wash
  2. Clay bar treatment
  3. Stage 1: Menzerna 400 heavy cut compound
  4. Stage 2: Menzerna 3500 finishing polish
  5. IPA wipedown
  6. Ceramic coating (Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light)

Took about 12 hours over 2 days. Black paint shows every defect so it was a lot of work. But the result is mirror-like.

Wish I could post photos here. The before/after is dramatic.

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2 replies

  1. #1
    DDieselChip

    @dieselchip

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    For constant power, tap fuse F15 (rear power distribution). For switched power, tap F87. Route the cable along the headliner and down the A-pillar for a clean install.

  2. #2
    CCarbonFiberFan

    @carbon_fiber_fan

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    Black paint is the hardest to keep looking good. After paint correction, you absolutely need to protect it with either ceramic coating or PPF. Otherwise the swirl marks will come back within a few months. I use Gtechniq Crystal Serum Ultra on my black F30 and it still looks perfect after 2 years.

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