This 2023 Jaguar F-Pace came into our Southwest Austin shop with paint that had lost its depth: swirl marks from years of washing, fine scratches and a dull, oxidized look that hid how beautiful its deep green finish really is. We gave it a full two-step paint correction followed by XPEL FUSION PLUS V2 Premium ceramic coating, and brought it back to life.
Project at a glance
- Vehicle: 2023 Jaguar F-Pace
- Condition: swirl marks, fine scratches, oxidation and dull paint
- Service: two-step paint correction with RUPES compound and polish
- Protection: XPEL FUSION PLUS V2 Premium ceramic coating
- Warranty: 8-year XPEL coating warranty
- Shop: APS, Southwest Austin, TX
The Problem: Swirls, Scratches and Oxidation
Dark colors like this Jaguar’s deep green show every flaw. Automatic car washes, dry towels and the Texas sun had left the clear coat covered in spider-web swirl marks and fine scratches, and the paint had started to look flat and oxidized. Under our shop lights the reflections were cloudy instead of sharp. A wax or a quick polish would only hide this for a few weeks, so the right fix was a true paint correction.
Step 1: Compound to Remove Defects
After a thorough decontamination wash, we masked the trim before any machine work. As RUPES-certified detailers, we used the RUPES system with a cutting compound to level the clear coat and remove the swirl marks, light scratches and oxidation. We work panel by panel under lighting built for paint work, so nothing gets missed.
Step 2: Polish for Depth and Gloss
Compounding removes defects, but it can leave a light haze. The second step uses a finishing polish to refine the surface and bring out maximum clarity and gloss. This is where the green really came alive, with deep, wet-looking reflections and color that pops in the sun. You can learn more about our process on our paint correction in Austin page.
Locking It In with XPEL FUSION PLUS Ceramic Coating
With the paint corrected, we prepped every panel with a panel wipe to remove polishing oils and installed XPEL FUSION PLUS V2 Premium, XPEL’s ceramic coating backed by an 8-year warranty. The coating bonds to the clear coat to add a hard, glossy, hydrophobic layer that helps protect against UV, bug acids, bird droppings and road grime, and makes every wash easier. Because we corrected the paint first, the coating seals in a flawless finish instead of the old swirls.
As a certified XPEL installer, we install XPEL coatings to the manufacturer’s standards so the warranty is fully backed. See all of our coating options on our ceramic coating in Austin page.
Want Even More Protection?
Ceramic coating adds gloss and makes cleaning easy, but it does not stop rock chips. For maximum protection, many owners add paint protection film to the front end and coat the rest of the vehicle, or finish the job with ceramic window tint to keep the cabin cool through Austin summers.
Jaguar F-Pace Ceramic Coating FAQ
What is a two-step paint correction?
A two-step paint correction is a machine polish done in two stages. The first step uses a cutting compound to remove swirl marks, light scratches and oxidation. The second step refines the finish with a polish to remove any haze and bring out maximum gloss and clarity before protection is applied.
How long does XPEL FUSION PLUS ceramic coating last?
The XPEL FUSION PLUS V2 Premium coating we installed on this Jaguar F-Pace is backed by an 8-year XPEL warranty when the vehicle is maintained according to XPEL care guidelines.
Should I polish my car before ceramic coating?
Yes. A ceramic coating locks in whatever is underneath it, including swirls and scratches. Correcting the paint first means the coating seals in a flawless, glossy finish instead of the defects.
How do I wash a ceramic coated car?
Hand wash with a pH-neutral soap and clean microfiber mitts, dry with a soft towel and avoid automatic car washes with brushes. The coating makes dirt release easily, so maintenance washes are faster.
Where can I get paint correction and ceramic coating in Austin?
At APS in Southwest Austin, at 15210 Fitzhugh Rd #304. We serve Bee Cave, Lakeway, Westlake, Oak Hill, Dripping Springs and the greater Austin area. Installs are by appointment.
Ready to bring your paint back to life? Visit APS at 15210 Fitzhugh Rd #304 in Southwest Austin, call (512) 740-5059 or request a free quote.
