The Ultimate Guide to Finishing Pads: Gloss, Clarity & Paint Perfection

Whether you’re chasing perfect black paint or prepping for ceramic, finishing pads are the key to swirl-free, high-gloss results. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about finishing pads—when to use them, how to use them, and which one to trust for pro-level results.

What Is a Finishing Pad?

A finishing pad is the softest foam pad used in paint correction. Its job isn’t to remove defects—it’s to refine the surface after correction, eliminate micro-marring, and boost gloss. The Black Finishing Pad from Jimbo’s Detailing uses premium European open-cell foam for safe, consistent results on even the most delicate paint.

Why You Need One

✅ Finishes down soft paint with no haze or trails
✅ Essential for black or dark-colored vehicles
✅ Ideal final step before ceramic coating
✅ Maximizes gloss and clarity

What It’s Not Meant For

Finishing pads are not for correction. If you're dealing with swirls, oxidation, or deep scratches—start with a polishing or cutting pad first. Use the finishing pad only once the surface is already swirl-free and you're refining for final clarity.

Best Finishing Pad Setup

Pad: Black Finishing Pad
Polish: Picture Perfect Polish
Protect: Tough As Shell Ceramic Spray

Finishing Pad vs Polishing Pad

Polishing pads remove defects and leave a good finish—but not always flawless. Finishing pads remove haze left behind by previous steps and amplify depth and gloss. Learn more in our full comparison: Finishing Pad vs Polishing Pad.

When to Use a Finishing Pad

✔️ After correction on black or soft paint
✔️ Before applying a ceramic coating
✔️ When chasing perfect clarity or show car results
✔️ As a final gloss-enhancing step

Technique Tips for Success

Use light pressure—just the weight of the machine
Keep machine speed low (DA: 3–4)
Clean your pad every few panels
Use a non-filler polish like Picture Perfect Polish

Prep for Protection: Ceramic-Ready Results

A final pass with a finishing pad ensures your surface is 100% clean and refined—setting the stage for ceramic spray coatings to bond and perform better. Learn why this matters in: Do You Need a Finishing Pad Before Ceramic Coating?

Full Blog Series on Finishing Pads

Frequently Asked Questions

What speed should I use with a finishing pad?

DA: Speed 3–4. Rotary: 1000–1200 RPM. Always use light pressure.

Can I skip this step if the paint looks good?

If perfection isn’t your goal, maybe. But on black paint or before ceramic coating, this step makes a huge difference.

Is your Black Finishing Pad washable?

Yes—rinse with warm water or pad cleaner and let air dry between uses.

How do I know if I need a finishing pad?

If you’re seeing haze, streaks, or chasing a perfect final shine—this pad is for you.