I am getting horrible water spots on my stripes. They are the stick on, kind, sort of a vinyl, plastic stripe. Anyone have any idea how to get them out? I tried Maguires, and it didnt do a thing. It is bad enough to make me consider removing them.

 

Try using a claybar. I've gotten water spots off my bumper with ease when nothing else worked. My car is black too. I also have a fleet of commercial trucks with vinyl decals and have used clay on the decals without any problem.

 

I don't know if I would recommend a claybar for vinal stripes. And also, depending on the type/brand of stripe waxing them is not a good idea either. Make sure the wax you use does not make mention of not using on vinal.

Have you tried detailing or finishing spray?

 

someone mentioned an armorall type cleaner. Im not sure if that would be safe, plus, overspray would be a big problem too

 

Armorall states right on the front label it is safe for vinal

As for overspray, spray it in to a cloth and wipe down the stripes. Just like you would on your dash to keep the spray off of the windshield.

 

Water spots are caused by minerals in the water..

wipe with a diluted mix of lime-away and water... then rise with clean water and wipe away immediately...

Once you gotten it off... use a wax made for plastics/vinyl (it will state "Save for plastic" on the bottle) to prevent future spots.

 

Those Mr. Clean car washer thingies rock for this. The filtered water alone makes them worth the price.