How Much Does a Car Buff and Polish Cost?

Buff and polish cost depends on the size of the vehicle, the condition of the paint and whether the marks are light surface defects or deeper scratches. Polishing can improve dull paint and light haze, but it is not a substitute for paint repair where colour coat is damaged.

What affects buff and polish cost

The operator will consider paint condition, vehicle size, access, oxidation, swirl marks and how much machine polishing is required. A quick refresh is different from heavy correction work or deep scratch repair.

Light marks vs deep scratches

If a mark sits in the clear coat, polishing may reduce or remove it. If the scratch catches a fingernail, exposes primer or has removed colour, a paint repair may be needed instead.

Buff and polish vs scratch repair

Buff and polish is best for gloss improvement, dull paint and light surface marks. Scratch repair is more suitable where paint has been cut through or localised colour matching is required.

When paint correction is more appropriate

Heavily swirled, neglected or show-car paint may need a dedicated paint correction/detailing service rather than a simple cosmetic buff and polish. The photos will help set the right expectation.

Ready to check suitability?

Send photos in natural light, including close-ups and wider shots, so the local operator can advise whether polishing is likely to help.

For related services, see bumper repairs, paint chip and scratch repairs, alloy wheel repairs and buff and polish.

Get a quote

Send a few clear photos of the damage, your suburb and your vehicle details. A local Touch Up Guys operator can confirm whether a mobile cosmetic repair is suitable and explain the next step before any work is booked.