Standard washing is not getting it

Bug and Tar removal, what products do you guys like? That won't harm the clear coat

Thanks

If it's new probably just needs a good coat of quality wax.
But, if when it is dry and you run a hand across it and it doesn't feel smooth you may need to clay bar it first. Lots of YouTube videos showing the process with pointers.
Clay barred a 2 year old car and it made a huge difference. That and a coat of Carnuba wax and the depth of the shine was impressive.

For bugs I've not found anything better than Pro-Boys Bug Squash. Does wonders removing love bugs

quote:

Originally posted by snwghst:
For bugs I've not found anything better than Pro-Boys Bug Squash. Does wonders removing love bugs

Poorboys? Good stuff.

Bugs N All works really good too.

As mentioned above, once you get it clean, it probably needs a good coat if wax. Carnuba will give it a great shine, but there are synthetic sealants that are easier to use that last longer too.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: BadDogPSD,

quote:

Originally posted by BadDogPSD:

quote:

Originally posted by snwghst:
For bugs I've not found anything better than Pro-Boys Bug Squash. Does wonders removing love bugs

Poorboys? Good stuff.

hahaha. Yep, auto correct got me

Like Powers77, I would recommend claying (clay bar & lubricant) after washing and before waxing. The clay bar will remove whatever is on the paint/clear coat (bugs, dirt, tar, etc.), leaving you a grit-free surface to wax. Two downsides to claying a car 1) it's extra effort and takes a while, and 2) you have to wash the car after claying to wash away the lubricant.

By claying the car, you'll get a really smooth, clean surface to wax/polish, and it removes the possibility of swirling the grit from the paint or clearcoat and scratching the car.

Wash it with a good car soap/wax (can get Meguiars Ultimate Wash and Wax at Walmart - I use Surf City Garage)

Dry with a good microfiber drying towel (always use good quality microfiber applicators and microfiber towels for removing)

Detail spray - Turtle Wax Ice Spray Detailer (this stuff will remove any water spots) (can get at Walmart or auto parts store)

Like Powers77 said feel your paint - to make your fingers more sensitive put your hand in a sandwich baggie and "slowly and lightly" run your fingers across the paint and you will feel the roughness (this is contaminants and overspray)

Clay bar - Do your paint and windows - per instructions detail spray clean after. (can get a Meguiars clay bar kit at Walmart or auto parts store)

A coat of Adams Brilliant Glaze (will not stain plastic trim - worth ordering)

A coat of Adams Buttery Wax (will not stain plastic trim - worth ordering)

Go the extra mile on the rest of the car

Trim - Mequiars Ultimate Black or Mothers Back To Black (Walmart)

Windows - Adams Glass Sealant kit (worth ordering)

Wheels - with the glaze and wax

Tire sidewalls - pick one for the look you like - shiny or dull/natural

Sit back and admire your hard work

Products listed can be substituted with the ones you like or what is available local, some of these (and many others) are mail order - but well worth it.

If you have access to a good DA polisher and don't have the patience for a clay bar session, try a Nanoskin.
nanoskin pad

There is also a hand held strap for the pad, but I've never tried it.

I do an exterior detail of my Tundra and wife's MKC annually.

nanoskin- paint and glass
polish with Chemical Guys 36/38 polish
seal with Chemical Guys Jet Seal - paint and glass
wax Meguiars 26

I use the nanoskin on painted and glass areas of the vehicle.
The nanoskin does what a clay bar does in MUCH less time.
Removes dirt, impurities, and pollution a regular wash doesn't remove.
It leaves your paint and glass as smooth, or smoother, than when it was new.
Just make sure to follow the directions and keep the pad lubricated.
There are youtube videos that helped me.

Doing the plastic bag test with the nanoskin is like going from sandpaper to a sheet of glass.

I use a clay bay on my new cars. You'd be surprised how much rail dust gets into the paint. I will clay bar the whole thing then a sealant, my current favorite being Zaino. My detail guy says he sees more brand new vehicles trashed by prepping the paint at the dealer

I have been just taking advantage of the drive through car wash at the dealership, now you guys have gotten me thinking about clay bars and synthetic sealants

I have used Liqui Tech polish on the motorcycles for years,and the bottle has gone a long way with only using it on the fenders and tanks

I think I'll checkout some of the brands you guys mentioned

Any other suggestions or manufacturers you like for maintaining the finish?

Thanks

Go to the autogeek forums

That will keep you busy with the vast array of products and information. Lots of very knowledgeable people.

I've countless hours on it