I just tried out the Mother's clay bar system (it all comes in one box) and while my finish is now super smooth and glassy, it highlighted every imperfection in my paint. I never realized I had so many chips in the nose and even some spiderwebbing. This makes me want to spend more $$ and time on my finish... My vertical surfaces like the doors and fenders look awesome.

So, you may not want to use the clay bar if you did not use one since the car was new. Of course I did wait 125k miles and 8 years to do it, if your car is only a few years old you should be OK.

I am so impressed with the surface now that I tell everyone I know to clay bar that car as soon as you get it. The video posted in the 'clay bar' thread here with the new Chevy truck is a great tool for convincing people.

Don't use it unless you are ready to 'go the distance' or live with the imperfections!
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:lol: Yes, claybaring is only a step in a multi step process.

Now just get yourself a PC, some pads, and a few polishes and make that 8 year paint look like new!
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I was thinking about making a fashion statement with my paint with the careful placement of swirls using my old school drill and a polishing pad.

Just like those stainless designs where someone scallops it with a grinder......

Maybe not.
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^^^always a good idea.
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dont use it if your paint doesnt need it.

use the plastic baggie test...feel nothing? dont use it
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So, you may not want to use the clay bar if you did not use one since the car was new. Of course I did wait 125k miles and 8 years to do it, if your car is only a few years old you should be OK.

I waited 240k and 13 years.
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Those clay bars are great for overspray and other "stuff" like that.The clay works realy well w/ any brand of "final wipe, or final inspection spray". Always use the clay wet!
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huh dont claybar the car when you first get it. it will take of the clear coat.
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huh dont claybar the car when you first get it. it will take of the clear coat.

umm your dumb, factory paint is baked on, you can wax it clay it/ polish it right when you get it.
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You can clay on new car, just don't use agressive clay.
:rolleyes:
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You can clay on new car, just don't use agressive clay.
:rolleyes:

thank you
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I think there is a bit of confusion here. I think everyone that hasn't, should read this. More specifically "How does a detailing clay bar work" in the middle.

http://autopia.org/forum/guide-detailing/80231-detailing-clay-pre-wax-cleaning.html
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I think there is a bit of confusion here. ....unfortunately, this is nothing new.

Autopia is a great resource for detailing/paint care information. The articles (like the one Vew linked to) are short, easy to understand and full of useful information (and there's a vast forum to discuss/research detailing specific topics). ......if you haven't been there, I would suggest a visit.
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