knewblewkorvette

I just purchased a 99 C5. I knew the car's paint was in bad shape when I purchased her but geez, the hard water spots are a bitch to get rid of. I tried the old remedy of white vinegar and it didn't do squat. Then I tried clay bar, that didn't do squat. Then I tried Meguiar's Ultimate Compound and it did a pretty good job but still didn't get rid of the spots completely (sure brought out the shine though). So now I'm using Pinnacle XMT series Swirl Remover 4. It's getting rid of the water spots but sure is leaving lots of swirl marks and making finish a little dull. I'm using a 6" yellow pad. So far I've only done half the hood and a headlight. Before I proceed further, does anyone have a better way to get rid of water spots without leaving swirl marks.
What it started out like:



Right side is the one I've been working on.

rkj427

If you are certain that they haven't etched into the clear coat, you can check to see if they catch your fingernail when running over them, you should be able to remove them using a polisher and a more abrasive paint correcting compound, then going back over the surface with a finishing compound before applying your last step protection.

0Adam's Polish

Check this link out, it may help you.

http://adamspolishes.com/how-to-remove-water-spots

knewblewkorvette

Thanks guys,
After reading the article, I without a doubt, I have water spot etching.
I've pretty much have given up on removing them completely. I did compound the whole car and it removed some but it still looks like the moon. It has Great reflection and shine though.
My yellow pad turned black when I did the halo. I guess that means the halo is without a clear coat, doh! Guess I need to get that part of the car repainted.
I plan on daily driving the car so I probably won't go through the expense of having the car professionally done (wet sanded). I guess I'll see how bad she looks when I get her back out in the sun.
P.S. Pinnacle "Paintwork Cleansing Lotion" sucks. Used it after the compound, it was a super bitch to get off and did nothing.
What it looks like now. I still need to wax.