Hi all,

Last month I bought a '96 STI in blue. The paintwork all looks original, but I don't think it's seen anything more than a gritty sponge since it was new :(

I'd appreciate any tips on how to get it looking shiny again. T-cut? Rotary polisher? Or just accept that as a one-off job I'm better off calling in a pro for the day?

Any idea how much work is likely to be involved and what the going rate is?

Also, there's a couple of small holes in the front bumper where a splitter was fitted; should I get these filled and sprayed before polishing the car or after?

Ta
Andy.

my splitter fits underneath so holes cant be seen, However if holes are seen id get this sorted first.
I would start off with a jet wash
cover car in foam with a foam lance or gilmour using meguirs
wash using lambswool mit n 2 bucket method
jet wash again
dry with microfibre or shami
clay bar with meguirs clay bar and quick detailer
buff and dry as you go
use a scratch product like meguires scratch x
buff off
polish
wax
sealent

sure others can say better

this would take about 6 hours

I'm guessing at that age, it's likely to require a good machine polish.

However doing it by hand will give good results. But you could still be left with swirls that hand polsihing will not shift.

I'd recommend you get the bumper repaired first if your going to get a pro in to clean her.

PM me if you want a price. (Where are you based?)


Craig

If its that old and that weathered get it pro done and simply keep it tip top using the normal techniques.

if its that old and weathered dont ponce about with silly washing techniques, when its allready coverd to death in swirls and crappy paint LOL


just wash it and either

dive in with the machine yourself
let somebody else dive in.

Pics under full sun or artificial lighting would help, but by the sound of it a pro detail to correct the paint would be worthwhile, as it will then be easier for you to keep on top of in the future. I'd definitely get any bodyshop work done prior to the detail. :)

Thanks - I'll try and remember to get a few pictures this evening.

Craig, YHPM - waiting for your quote :)