Tips on restoring just a bit of luster...

Yes pledge, old car lot trick, will shine it up for a while, but don't touch it. Works great on a car with better paint that they were lazy on care. But yours is coming off some so marginal results. Try it at the wrecking yard and see how you like it.

Don't do pledge if you are going to do the clear coat trick. And don't use rattlecan clear as it won't last very long.