Paint Correction

At Flat Out Detailing, our expert paint correction services remove imperfections from your vehicle’s paintwork, such as scratches, swirl marks, water spots, and etching. Serving San Diego and surrounding areas, we use advanced techniques and premium products to restore and protect your car’s finish.

We offer two levels of paint correction:

Level 1: One-Step Polish
This service is ideal for removing light imperfections and restoring gloss and shine to your vehicle.

Level 2: Two-Step Polish
For vehicles with more significant paint defects, our two-step polish provides a deeper level of correction. Typically achieves a perfect finish on lightly defected paint and up to 75% improvement on heavily defected paint.

Our Paint Correction Process

  • Thorough wash and clay bar treatment to remove contaminants

  • Machine polishing with professional compounds and pads

  • Inspection under proper lighting to ensure a perfect finish

  • Optional paint protection application (ask about Ceramic Coating!)

Pricing

Starting at $499, depending on vehicle size and condition. Free estimates available.

Why Choose Flat Out Detailing?

  • Experienced, detail-focused technicians

  • High-quality products that preserve paint integrity

  • Competitive pricing with exceptional results

  • Serving all of San Diego County

Contact us to get a quote.

Testimonials

  • First off, Felipe is the best!! My car was in need of a two-step paint correction due to years of washing through gas station car washes (so bad). Felipe made my car look BRAND NEW and I couldnt have asked for a better outcome! I loved the attention to detail and professionalism. Thanks so much Felipe!

    John C.

  • My Audi Q3 has been a regular with Flat Out Detailing for a few months now. After going through a bunch of detailers, Felipe was a breath of fresh air. My cars mean a lot to me, and I appreciate the attention to detail and care that has been offered thus far. I just bought my wife a used Wrangler and it was in subpar condition, along with the dealer doing a terrible job detailing it. Felipe performed a paint correction and a premium detail, now the Wrangler is like new. I wouldn’t take my vehicles to anyone else. Genuinely talented and super cool. I’d trust him with any car.

    Elexia W.

  • Felipe at Flatout Detailing is a true profession and perfectionist! He is kind, knowledgeable and great with his communication while taking care of your vehicle. Flatout washed my car, performed a minor paint correction then ceramic coated the car and wheels. Car turned out amazing!!! Would HIGHLY recommend!

    Ryan B.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Usually 1-2 days, depending on the level of correction needed.

  • Absolutely! Ceramic coating is the perfect follow-up to protect your newly corrected paint.

  • Polishing is a part of the paint correction process, but correction goes further by using multiple stages of compounding and polishing to remove actual defects—not just mask them.

  • It can remove most surface-level scratches, swirl marks, and oxidation. However, deep scratches that penetrate the clear coat may not be completely removable without repainting.

  • If your paint looks dull, has swirl marks, haze, or noticeable scratches in direct sunlight, a paint correction can significantly improve its appearance.

  • Surprisingly, yes! Even new vehicles often have swirl marks or imperfections from the dealership or transport process.

  • With proper maintenance and protection (like ceramic coating), the results can last for years. Avoid automatic car washes and harsh cleaning products to preserve the finish.

  • Absolutely. It can increase the visual appeal and perceived value, making it easier to sell at a better price.