Need help from some experienced folks here... I'm in the USAF and currently living in Belgium. It rains CONSTANTLY here!!!!

I had to leave my F-150 w/ the in-laws and I'm currently driving a used 1989 BMW 325i. Needless to say, due to the age, the paint looks like hell... lots of scratches, fading in some spots, swirl marks, rust under the edges, etc etc etc.

What can I do to make this car look respectable??? I didn't spend too much for it but I still have my pride.

Thanks,
Pete

P.S. For the record --- I MISS MY TRUCK!!!! The lack of a "road commanding view" SUCKS!!!!!!

 

Not sure what supplies you'll be able to find over there. I'm guessing your going to be applying all the products by hand.

You going to need a heavy compound. 3m Fine Cut Rubbing Compound should work.

You then going to need a fine polish. Something like Meguiar's #9.

Then your gonna need a wax.

 

If memory serves, they carry the Turtle Wax products at the Post Exchange. Since I'm not looking to spend TOO much money on the outside (I want to put a new radio in also), do you think the Turtle Wax will be sufficiant for this purpose? If not, I have already ordered items thru Checker Auto at http://www.csk.com

 

Turtle wax will be better than nothing.

You really need a polish though to remove the oxidized paint and scratches. That'll give you a better shine.

 

I've got a can of either polish or rubbing compound (which one is in the white plastic can???) already. Should one use do it or should I polish it 2-3 times to make sure I've got it clean before I wax it off?

 

I don't really know the turtle wax line that much.

You'll probably need to do it a few times to get clean and scratch free.