So I did a search for "new car" and nothing came up. I just bought a new 2007 coupe, and was wondering how do I go about sealing it? I have read the detailing posts and I have a sealant picked out, but do I need to clay the car first to remove any wax the dealer may have applied?

 

Here's a good writeup from Picus, a resident detailing professional here on G35Driver about new car prep...

Performing your own new car prep

I do recommend claying new vehicles, as does Picus. There can be a lot of embedded contamination on the surface of the vehicle upon delivery and the dealer preps are usually mediocre at best. It will also provide you with a fresh surface to remove any dealer applied sealant or wax.

If you need a hand putting together a package to get the most out of protecting your new vehicle, please do not hesitate to ask.

George

 

I second the clay bar recommendation. You won't belive what's on the paint after you see the clay.

A sealant will enhance any paint prep that it goes over. If the paint has tons of swirls, scratches, or any imperfections, it will seal it in. The key is to get a clean prepped paint surface before sealing it.

 

Great information. Can you clarify the clay application process?

What direction (front-to-back of car?), and is it a back and forth motion?

Or left to right, lift up clay, then left to right again?

Thanks in advance.

 

Use plenty of clay lube or quick detailer and GENTLY move back and forth in a horizontal fashion or in the direction the wind passes as you drive. Do not drop your clay. If you do, throw it out. I cut mine in half in case I drop it. If it falls on the ground, it will pick up stuff and WILL scratch your paint.

 

If you're doing a car, 1/4 of the bar should suffice. Clay motion is side to side and again, use alot of lube. The 2 things you don't want is to not have the clay stick to the paint for it will stain, and drop the clay. Knead the clay once you see it start to get dirty or out of shape. After the car is done, throw away the clay.

 

How long does it usually take to clay an average size car?