Hey guys,

I noticed that many people on here clay bar their car or/and polish their car. I only wash my car and wax it every 2 or 3 washes. Can someone explain to me what else i should do and whyyou guys do that? I feel that i may be losing out on something after reading that many do more then just washing and waxing. Thanks for the help.

 

I would throw a polish and claybar into the mix every 2-3 months. The prep work is the key to the best possible finish. Claying,polishing, and swirl removal are what is going to make your car look its best. The claybar will take out any embedded contaminants and leave your finish feeling very smooth. The polish and swirl removers will take out scratches and swirls,bring out more shine and reflection, and prep the surface for your wax.

 

Thanks Juz.

I dont want to sound like an idiot, but can you give me a quick run down on how to clay and polish? do i do that after i wash it and wax it or what are the steps? Can you reccomend some good polish and a good clay?

Thanks!

 

Justin will fix you up good when he gets a chance.

If you want to go over-the-counter and apply by hand...

If it's in good condition and you don't want too much work, I start with Mothers clay bar, FX SynWax (or Reflections Car Wax), and I'd either follow with a pure carnauba or at least a spray wax.

If you've got some spiderwebbing, I'd clay, and use Mothers Pre-Wax Cleaner, then the Sealer & Glaze and finish with Pure Carnauba Wax -- I like the paste. Use a spray wax after every wash or two.

With your dark blue car, I'd always wash with a sheepskin mitt and use two buckets (one for rinse). Do your wheels either first or last with a separate mitt and bucket. Sheet rinse and dry with a microfiber towel.


You can see a "how to clay" video at Mothers and you might check out their Detail Guide for other tips.

 

You want to use a clay lube so you have plenty of lubrication. Just spray the lube on a 2x2 section and let the claybar glide over the surface, there is no need to apply any pressure. At first the claybar might grab or it will feel rough, once your paint feels super slick it is time to move onto the next section. I carry a 4 oz. elastic claybar. I also have a claybar kit that has the claybar and my Fast Shine quick detailer as a clay lube.

If you are going to be polishing by hand here is what I would do....If you are just wanting to clean the paint and bring out more shine and reflection I would just put the polish on like a wax, just put it on and take it off. If you are trying to correct light swirls or scratches try to rub it in until it becomes almost clear. My Light Polish works excellent by hand and leaves a great finish. The Poorboys and Optimum polishes I carry work great too.