Here�s a quick and dirty run down on exterior detailing:

1. Wash
2. Clay
3. Optional wash again
4. Paint correction (polish, compound)
5. Last stage protectant (wax or sealant)

Washing obviously removes loose dirt/mud etc. Clay removes things left on top of your paint such as tree sap, overspray, rail dust, or other paint contaminates. Contrary to popular belief it does NOT remove scratches.

Depending on the severity of the scratches they can possibly be removed with a compound or a polish. The difference between the two is the amount by which it �cuts�; the finer of the two is the polish. If you�re removing the scratches by hand, I�ve had somewhat good results with Meguiar�s Scratch X which you can find usually at Wal Mart and the like. Now, here�s where it gets expensive. You could hire a professional detailer to two step your exterior for somewhere in the neighborhood of $125-$200 depending on the size of your vehicle and be done with it. However, if you have a lot of scratches and you like to DIY, buy a Porter Cable random orbital. It�s basically fool proof as it�s difficult to damage your paint with one versus a rotary which can easily burn your paint. It will run you about $150 by the time you get the unit, pads, and pad attachment. Seriously, this is the area that makes or breaks your detail job. You want to spend the bulk of your time on this step. The machine makes it so much easier than doing it by hand.

My favorite polish for machine use is made by Optimum. It�s called Optimum Polish, and it is a polish when used on a light foam pad, but it doubles as a light compound when used with an aggressive foam pad on the random orbital. Optimum is mail order only unless you have a detail shop close by that carries it.

Finally, after you correct your paint, you choose between a wax or a sealant. I�m not going to get into a carnauba vs. sealant look debate, but there�s no question an acrylic sealant outlasts a wax by a large margin in both UV protection and water beading ability. Again, it�s difficult to find good products sold locally, especially at the discount stores. I like Zaino Z-2 Pro, and it applies so sparingly that one bottle lasts a long time. If you�re absolutely dead set on buying locally, the Duragloss #105 sold at Carquest is the best choice.

Hope this helps, sorry it isn�t a simple answer to make your vehicle look good!