Apparently a leaky pipe in ceiling of garage has been dripping onto hood. It has left a whitish spot that won't come off with warm water or small amount of car wax. I don't want to damage the black paint and am really surprised at how stubborn the stain is. Leak in pipe fixed but how do I safely remove the rough-feeling calcium/water stain? I would really appreciate your help.

 

3M makes a good scratch remover-- gets rid of swirls, water spots, scratches, etc... works on mild oxidation, too. Go to any auto store and they should have it. Make sure you clean the area thoroughly, remove all wax, and then put a little on the spot, rub with a cotton towel (the abbrasive nature of the towel works better than a microfiber in this particular situation), and keep an eye on it as you do it.

Some will say to use a random-orbital buffer, but for something this minor it's not necessary. The 3M scratch remover is also safe for your clear coat, so don't worry about it creating any more spirderwebs or problems. I've used it several times with great results on black. Good luck.

G

2003.5 Black w/ Willow G35
Premium / Sport / Aero / Winter / Navi / Tint

 

well, i was gonna say that the cotton towel might scratch up the clearcoat.....but you da man G [img]/w3timages/icons/wink.gif[/img]

<font color=green>-Rambo</font color=green>
G35c 6MT DG/Willow/HyperGround/BorlaExhaust

 

Hey now, I was just told to do it and it works for me-- I may just have the magic touch though [img]/w3timages/icons/wink.gif[/img]

If you're nervous about it, microfiber will work too, just put some elbow grease into it. Have fun obsessing!

G

2003.5 Black w/ Willow G35
Premium / Sport / Aero / Winter / Navi / Tint

 

If its a calcium or hard water spot I would try to get it off first with vinegar. Don't risk the swirl marks by using an abrasive cleaner.

Jim
'03 Sedan
Brilliant Silver/Graphite
6MT/ Premium package
Sport tuned suspension
Aerodynamic Body Kit
Navigation and Satellite Radio

 

Thanks guys! Will let you know what I use and how well it worked. G

 

Oh-- forgot about this one, but club soda also works. Make sure you wipe it off immediately afterwards and don't let it sit for too long, but it's excellent at removing bug parts/bird poop/calcium-laden crap. Just do it carefully.

G

2003.5 Black w/ Willow G35
Premium / Sport / Aero / Winter / Navi / Tint