I ordered a 06 coupe (12 weeks to delivery) and told the dealer not to wash it. I ordered black and am concerned about swirls. He told me that they don't just wash it they "detail it" and they remove swirls and surface scratches from shipping. If I did not let them wash it they would not take responsibility for any swirls after I took shipment. Should I let them wash...I mean detail?

p.s. I told them not to put on the front plate!

 

Yes, new cars are a mess from shipping. There might be scratches under the layers of dirt. Let them wash it and inspect the car before you sign the documents.

 

I have a black sedan and I let them do the initial prep. There is alot of protective sheeting that has to be removed along with potential salt, rail dust etc. My dealer results were very good, but Im sure the quality will vary enormously depending on the dealership.

I would let them do it since that is where any factory/shipping defects will be found. Just do a good inspection in full daylight once they finish. BTW, after initial delivery and inspection, I have never let them or anyone else wash mine again. I have seen black G's come out of washes that look absolutely hideous. The paint will never be the same, even with a good rubout. Scratching is too deep from the grit on the brushes from the SUV right before. Only fresh water with a fresh mitt will do on the obsidian.

Also, I couldnt stand them before, but now I wish I would have installed a clear bra on the front. The paint on these cars is really fragile. At least on the 03.5. Maybe they have toughened it up since, but I doubt it.