2004 Pontiac GTO Paint Correction and Ceramic Coating in Waco | All in the Details
When I started All in the Details, my mission was simple—treat every vehicle like it was my own. Some jobs stand out more than others, and this 2004 Pontiac GTO was one of those details I’ll never forget. The car rolled into my shop in Waco a few days before a big weekend car show, and the owner wanted it to shine like never before. With a full paint correction, a four-year ceramic coating, and a complimentary interior detail, this GTO transformed from a clean street car into a true show winner. By the end of the weekend, it even took home Best in Class 1980–Present, and I couldn’t have been prouder.
First Impressions: A Modded Black LSX GTO
The GTO already had plenty going for it before I ever touched it. Under the hood was a fully built 5.7L LSX motor, and the stance, wheels, and exhaust gave it a presence you don’t see every day. But like many black cars, the paint told a different story up close. Years of daily use, improper washing, and simple wear left the surface covered in swirl marks, light scratches, and water spots. Black paint is one of the most rewarding colors to correct, but it’s also the most unforgiving. My job was clear: make the paint look as deep and reflective as possible while protecting it for years to come.
Step One: Decontamination Wash
Every great exterior detail starts with a solid foundation. I began with a full decontamination wash to strip away dirt, road grime, old wax, and embedded contaminants. This step goes far beyond a normal wash. I used a pH-balanced soap, iron remover, and clay bar treatment to make sure the surface was perfectly clean before polishing. Running my hand across the paint before and after the process told the whole story—what started out feeling rough and gritty ended up smooth like glass.
Step Two: Full Paint Correction
Once the car was clean and masked off, it was time for the heart of the job: the paint correction. This process is what separates a true professional detail from a basic cleanup. Using a multi-stage machine polishing system, I carefully worked panel by panel to remove imperfections from the clear coat. On this GTO, the difference was night and day. The swirl marks that dulled the paint were polished away, and the true depth of the black finish began to show.
Paint correction requires patience, skill, and the right products. Cut too aggressively and you risk damaging the paint. Play it too safe and you leave defects behind. It’s a balancing act that comes with years of experience, and with this car, I was able to bring out a mirror-like reflection without compromising the integrity of the finish.
Step Three: Four-Year Ceramic Coating
After polishing, it was time to lock in the results with a professional-grade ceramic coating. This isn’t just a shiny wax job—it’s a protective layer that chemically bonds to the paint and lasts for years. For this GTO, I applied a four-year ceramic coating designed to resist UV rays, road grime, water spots, and light scratches. Beyond protection, the coating also gave the paint a rich, glossy finish that looked like it had been dipped in black glass. The hydrophobic properties mean the owner won’t just enjoy a better shine; the car will stay cleaner longer and be much easier to maintain.
Complimentary Interior Detail
Even though the focus was on the exterior, I always believe in delivering a complete package. That’s why I include a complimentary interior detail with services like this. I vacuumed every inch, wiped down the dash and panels, and dressed the interior surfaces to restore a fresh, clean feel. By the time I finished, the GTO looked just as sharp on the inside as it did on the outside.
The Big Reveal
There’s nothing better than stepping back after a detail like this and seeing the transformation. The black paint no longer looked tired—it looked alive. Under the shop lights, it reflected like a mirror. Outside in the sun, the depth and clarity of the finish turned heads instantly. The owner was blown away when he picked it up, and I could already tell it was going to make a statement at the show that weekend.
From the Shop to the Show
That Saturday, the GTO pulled into the car show looking sharper than ever. The judges took notice, and so did the crowd. By the end of the day, it had earned Best in Class 1980–Present, a huge accomplishment and a well-deserved recognition of both the car and the detail. Seeing my work play a role in helping a customer take home a trophy is one of the most rewarding parts of this business. For me, it’s not just about detailing cars—it’s about creating experiences and memories for owners who truly love their rides.
Why Paint Correction and Ceramic Coating Matter
This GTO is a perfect example of what proper paint correction and ceramic coating can do. Not only did it transform the look of the car, but it also gave the owner peace of mind knowing the finish was protected for the next four years. Black paint especially benefits from these services, as it shows every imperfection but also offers the most dramatic results when done right.
If you’re prepping for a car show, looking to restore your car’s shine, or just want the best protection available, paint correction and ceramic coating are investments worth making. They not only improve the appearance but also preserve the value of your vehicle.
My Takeaway as a Detailer
Every car that comes into All in the Details tells a story, and I’m grateful to be part of it. This Pontiac GTO reminded me why I do what I do. Cars are more than transportation—they’re passion projects, investments, and extensions of their owners. Being trusted to take that passion to the next level is something I never take lightly.
For me, the real win wasn’t just the trophy at the car show. It was seeing the smile on the owner’s face when he saw his car reborn. That’s what detailing is all about, and that’s what keeps me striving to deliver the best results possible.
Ready to Transform Your Vehicle?
Whether you drive a classic muscle car, a daily driver, or a modern sports car, All in the Details is here to bring out the best in your vehicle. From exterior and interior details to paint correction and ceramic coatings, I take pride in treating every car like it’s headed to the winner’s circle.
If you’re ready to give your car the attention it deserves, its time to get your free quote. Let’s make your ride stand out—on the road, at the show, and everywhere in between.