I've noticed a lot of posts regarding scratches and swirls on this forum. So, I figure some of my expertise would be helpful here. First off, to protect the car's paint finish is actually a pretty tedious job and many people try too hard when it comes to maintaining the paint. It doesn't matter if the car is black or red, swirls will show if it becomes extensive. However, it just shows up a lot more on black or darker colored vehicles. Here are some steps to cleaning your cars:

-prep wash your car and lightly wipe down the car w/ a soft wash cloth. If you plan on claying, do so during the prep wash and make sure the areas you're claying is always wet. Toss the clay once it gets filled w/ grit & dirt.......
-Clay is a great tool to remove oxidation and other contaminants, but it's also the one thing that that creates the most damage. Once the clay fills up w/ dirt / grit, the clay then becomes a low grit sandpaper........while you think you're cleaning the car, you're actually scraping up the paint w/ the dirty clay.
-When claying make sure the clay is clean and avoid claying one area too long as paint scratches easily despite most clay bar labels' state "clearcoat safe". Actually most washing tools are clearcoat safe as long as it was used properly.
-After claying you could either polish the car up w/ a high-speed buffer or an orbital buffer. I wouldn't recommend anyone here use a high speed unless you're familiar w/ detailing and polishing. A high-speed buffer actually can burn the paint if used improperly. An orbital buffer is much safer for the diy person.
-If there are scratches on the car, then use a mild polishing compound. If the car's new, then apply paint sealant as it provides the best protection........superior to any wax.

Hope this helps guys! Post here if anyone's got questions.

Certified Window Tint & Detailing Specialist
3M / VentureShield Paint Protection Film Dealer
Madico Window Film Dealer
syu@machiii.net
2003 AT Sedan / 2004 6MT Coupe

 

I just received an orbital polisher as a gift, it has a variable speed of 1000 - 3000 rpms with a 7" buffer. What speed can I safely buff my black car to remove the swirls and fine scratches without burning it?

2003 Blk/Blk Premium w/navigation
Tinted Windows
Chrome Wheels
BRM Catback Exhaust
Injen CAI
Unorthodox Crank Pulley (on order)
Clear Corners
Grounding Wires
255/45ZR17's rear

 

start off @ the lowest setting......make sure the car's clean before you buff. Also, do not press down on the buffer, just let the weight of the buffer do it's thing.

Certified Window Tint & Detailing Specialist
3M / VentureShield Paint Protection Film Dealer
Madico Window Film Dealer
syu@machiii.net
2003 AT Sedan / 2004 6MT Coupe

 

What kind of a 'paint sealant'? Can you give an example or two by product name?

I'd sure appreciate it. There are just so many products in the stores and different manufacturers use different names for the same things. Everybody here has their own preferences on stuff, and I've tried a few, wax-wise/cleaner-wise anyway. Haven't really found anything I really like yet.


2004.5 TB/Willow 6MT Coupe
Aluminum Pedals
BEL RX75 Pro Plus
K&N High-Flow
Other mods to be disclosed later.

 

I use crystal guard. Works pretty good. Even bugs just wash off with high pressure hose.

 

I personally use 3M chemicals that cannot be bought on the open market. From what many members here are saying, go w/ Zaino or Crystal Guard. The results are very appealing.............try it out.

Certified Window Tint & Detailing Specialist
3M / VentureShield Paint Protection Film Dealer
Madico Window Film Dealer
syu@machiii.net
2003 AT Sedan / 2004 6MT Coupe