For years, automotive detailing professionals have diligently searched for the perfect products to achieve unparalleled results. Many, like us at Detail Peoria, have curated a trusted arsenal of detailing solutions that consistently deliver exceptional outcomes, allowing us to focus on business growth and client satisfaction. However, the pursuit of innovation never truly ceases. The Ask a Pro Blog provides a valuable platform to periodically revisit product testing, exploring new formulations and advancements in the detailing industry. Recently, I had the opportunity to rigorously evaluate Car Pro Clear Cut and Car Pro Reflect on an ideal test subject: a jet black 2011 Mercedes-Benz.
My prior experience with CarPro Clearcut had been positive, as documented in my initial impressions. While it demonstrated promising performance upon its release, it didn’t immediately displace our established favorites in our daily workflow. This wasn’t due to any deficiency in its capabilities, but rather our preference for streamlined processes using familiar and reliable products as we expanded our business. The opportunity to assess Clearcut, and its companion product Reflect, on the notoriously challenging paint of a Black Mercedes was particularly exciting.
As with any paint correction endeavor, we began with a thorough and safe hand wash, followed by meticulous chemical and mechanical decontamination. This crucial step ensures the removal of surface contaminants, revealing the true condition of the paint beneath. Upon inspection, it became evident that the Mercedes’ finish would significantly benefit from a comprehensive two-step correction process to unlock its full potential and achieve a truly “better than new” luster. After carefully masking off delicate trim and edges, we proceeded to conduct test spots to determine the optimal product and pad combination. For the compounding stage, we settled on a Meguiars microfiber cutting pad paired with CarPro Clearcut. Working methodically, we performed 4 to 5 passes over most sections, carefully monitoring our progress to achieve the desired level of correction.
The correction achieved with Clearcut was impressive, precisely meeting the requirements for this particular project. With the compounding stage complete, the black Mercedes was ready for polishing to refine the finish and maximize gloss. For this step, I opted for a white Lake Country polishing pad to test CarPro Reflect. While hopeful for positive results, achieving a flawless, swirl-free finish on jet black paint can sometimes necessitate experimenting with various product and pad combinations. Reflect not only delivered exceptional results on this Mercedes paint system, but it also rekindled my appreciation for its user-friendly nature. I recalled Reflect being a favored polish in our early business days, and its extended working time and effortless wipe-off were immediately apparent once again. There is a distinct satisfaction in removing polish residue to reveal perfectly refined, jet black paint, polished to an impeccable standard.
Upon completion of the paint correction process, the black Mercedes exhibited a finish that surpassed factory condition. To preserve this enhanced appearance, we applied a long-lasting coating, ensuring lasting protection and shine. The cooperative nature of the paint throughout the process allowed for a comprehensive evaluation of both Clearcut and Reflect within a single project. Both products proved to be exceptionally easy to work with, and the final results were undeniable, leaving both myself and the vehicle owner exceedingly pleased with the transformed paintwork. In detailing, optimal product performance and client satisfaction are paramount. Reflect, in particular, has earned its place back into our regular product inventory. Based on this experience, I confidently recommend both CarPro Clearcut and Reflect to anyone seeking a high-performance compound or polish to elevate their car detailing results, especially on challenging finishes like black Mercedes paint.
