Polishing removes scratches, oxidation, and swirl marks from the paint. Coating then places a protective layer on top. Together they deliver the best results, but they also require the most preparation and the right materials: the correct compound or polish, the matching pad, and a machine that does the work without causing damage.

A polish or coating kit removes the guesswork about which pad matches which compound. Check whether the kit is designed for hand or machine use, and whether it contains a quick spray coating or a harder ceramic coating. That determines how much protection you get and how long it lasts.