I just had my hood repainted do to vandalism. I just got the car back Friday and I was wondering (your opinion(s))how long until I can wash and polish then wax my car. Also, I parked the car under a tree last night and there are randow sap drops all over my car and I was wondering if a good polish is all that is needed to remove them. I am just worried that since I can't wash my car for another couple weeks (what the body shop said) should I be worried about the sap? Thanks everyone!

 

I would go back to the shop and ask their opinion. You might have a problem if this is fresh paint

 

I am not sure what you consider fresh paint, I got the car on friday after the car was in the shop for a week, so I am assuming the paint had a few days to drive, I am thinking of just taking a wet wash mit and dapping and wiping each spot, I think there are only a few on my car but I am just worried.

 

Not sure if there is any diff btween plastic bumper and metal, but when my bumper got repainted, I asked them and I was told I could wash no problem after 1 day.

 

I think washing is not a problem, they usually do that before they give the car back to you. As far as waxing, I would wait about 30 days, this will allow the paint to fully cure, and let the paint "breathe" out the normal chemicals that evaporate during the curing process. just my .02 :>)

 

Washing should not be a problem, but waxing as previously stated should happen after the paint cures.

 

Thanks guys, I think I am going to wash it but hold off on the polishing and waxing for a month. I have a 05 Black on Black Coupe and it is swirl mark heaven, so i am dying to polish those away and wax the darn thing.

 

To remove tar, sap, and bugs ...
http://www.autopia-carcare.com/horetasapbu.html