7 Mistakes to Avoid When Using Finishing Pads
Finishing pads are simple tools—but one wrong move and your final results can suffer. Here are 7 mistakes that can ruin your finish, and how to avoid them using a proper setup like the Black Finishing Pad from Jimbo’s Detailing.
1. Using Too Much Polish
A little goes a long way. Overloading the pad causes smearing, dusting, and incomplete breakdown of the polish. Start with 3–4 small drops of Picture Perfect Polish.
2. Applying Too Much Pressure
Finishing foam is soft by design. Excessive pressure will collapse the pad and can leave haze or micro-marring—especially on black paint. Let the machine and polish do the work.
3. Working Too Fast or Too Long
High speeds or extended polishing times create heat and drag. Keep your DA polisher around speed 3–4 and limit yourself to 2–3 slow passes per section.
4. Not Cleaning the Pad Frequently
Even finishing pads pick up polish residue and clear coat as you go. If you don’t clean the pad every few panels, it can reintroduce swirls or streaks. Blow out with compressed air or use a pad brush.
5. Using the Wrong Polish
Some polishes contain fillers or oils that smear instead of finish. Use a polish with no fillers and designed to finish clean, like Picture Perfect Polish.
6. Skipping the Final Panel Wipe
Even a clean finish needs a wipe-down with panel prep or IPA before protection. This removes any residual oil left behind by the polish and ensures your ceramic or sealant bonds properly.
7. Using a Finishing Pad for Correction
Finishing pads are not made to remove defects. If you try to correct swirls with a black pad, you’ll just waste time—and still have swirls. Always polish first, then finish.
Pro Tip:
Use the finishing pad as your final step before ceramic spray coating. It enhances gloss, removes hidden haze, and sets the stage for long-lasting results with Tough As Shell.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my finishing pad leaving haze?
Usually caused by too much pressure, too much product, or an overloaded pad. Lighten your touch and clean your pad frequently.
How often should I clean the pad?
Every 1–2 panels. Use compressed air or a pad brush to remove buildup without stopping your workflow.
Can I just use a finishing pad for one-step polish jobs?
Not recommended. Finishing pads don’t offer enough cut. Use a cut & finish pad or polishing pad instead, and reserve the finishing pad for final refinement.
Do I need to finish every detail with a finishing pad?
No—but for black or soft paint, or when prepping for ceramic protection, it's the safest way to guarantee a flawless finish.
