This white Mercedes-AMG GLE53 came from Attadale to AutoFX WA in O’Connor for paint preparation before the application of OPTiX FMJ graphene ceramic coating. The photographs concentrate on the preparation because this is the part of a coating job that largely determines the quality of the finished result.
Machine polishing before OPTiX FMJ
Once the GLE53 was clean, dry and masked, the paint could be machine polished to improve suitable defects and prepare the finish. The level of correction should always be based on the paint in front of us. The objective is to create a worthwhile improvement without removing unnecessary clear coat while chasing defects that cannot be safely eliminated.
After polishing, the masking was removed and the vehicle was carefully checked for residue. The paint then required a final preparation stage so that oils and polishing residue did not interfere with the ceramic coating bond.
Applying FMJ over a properly prepared finish
OPTiX FMJ uses a SiO₂ coating foundation with reduced graphene oxide. It is known for a strong bond, tough exterior and noticeably slick finish after application and appropriate maintenance.
That strong bonding behaviour also makes FMJ demanding to install. It can feel sticky during application and requires controlled coverage and careful levelling. Working over properly prepared paint makes it possible to produce the consistent finish the product requires.
Ceramic coating cannot prevent stone chips and does not make a vehicle impossible to scratch. Its practical purpose is to protect the corrected finish, make normal contamination easier to remove and reduce the need for repeated waxing.
The importance of the work before coating
The finished coating is the final protective stage, but it should never be treated as the complete job. Washing, wheel cleaning, decontamination, drying, masking, machine polishing and final surface preparation all contribute to the result.
This Mercedes-AMG GLE53 demonstrates why AutoFX WA documents those stages. Good preparation may not sound as exciting as the coating name, but it gives the coating a clean and properly prepared surface to protect.
Frequently asked questions
Why tape rubber and plastic trim before polishing?
Tape helps protect sensitive materials from contact with the polishing pad and reduces the chance of compound staining or collecting in narrow gaps.
Does clay replace machine polishing?
No. Clay removes suitable bonded contamination, while machine polishing improves suitable paint defects. They perform different parts of the preparation process.
Does FMJ create the shine by itself?
No. Most of the clarity and depth come from the paint condition and preparation. FMJ protects that prepared finish and contributes its own slick, finished appearance.
Learn more about our ceramic coating and paint-protection service in Perth.
AutoFX WA is located in O’Connor and services customers from Fremantle, Melville, Cockburn, Cottesloe and surrounding Perth areas. Request a quotation for your vehicle.
