Detailing Thread [For Newbies][ARCHIVED]

[mbeige]

This is what paint cleaner can do to your paint if it's been neglected. As you can see, the fresh "ivory" colored paint reveals itself once it has been cleaned. A whole bottle should be enough for even a midsized car, but mind you I bet you'll love what it does when you finally test it and might even do areas not necessary but good to know they're clean - like in the engine bay, door jambs, door frames, etc.



It's not necessarily "dirt" because dirt refers to loose debris on the surface. It's more of stuff that sticks on the surface usually not removable with just water or a damp cloth.

Your steps are good for me, but I much prefer just paint cleaner as first step rather than cleaner wax. This is so you can use the cleaning properties the most while you're at that step. Then continue preparing the paint with the swirl remover but be sure you know how to use it. There are products that are too aggressive so test it first.

If you haven't done much to the car's paint yet my best advise is to use cleaner wax first, and once you've done the whole car check which spots need swirl remover and use them there sparingly. Once done you can clay bar the whole car as a final prep, dry it well and then proceed with applying coats of wax.