Spots on Roof? Water spots? Rust?

[cinemafunk]

Hello,

I have a 2001 Honda Accord with lots of spots on my roof. I'm not sure if they are really water spots, and I have been looking at this thread, but I'm not sure. I'd like to know what it is exactly what I'm dealing with first before I start to attack.

This is only appearing on the roof of my car. I live in St. Pete/Clearwater, so temperatures nearly 100 degrees nearly daily for 1/2 the year.

If these are water spots, it sounds like I need to do the following:
1. Wash
2. Clay bar
3. If that doesn't get rid of it all, rubbing compound.
4. Wax

Is this correct? Any help is appreciated. Feel free to let me know if I need better pictures.

[Joe Dragon]

Re: Spots on Roof? Water spots? Rust?

Weird that they're only on the roof & black trim. The side around the sunroof looks like the paint is just dirty. Yeah, clay & a polish can't hurt.

[Old Bear]

Re: Spots on Roof? Water spots? Rust?

I am thinking turtle doves, crows and a large variety of smaller birds.

[Nick Winn]

Re: Spots on Roof? Water spots? Rust?

If these are water spots, it sounds like I need to do the following:
1. Wash
2. Clay bar
3. If that doesn't get rid of it all, rubbing compound.
4. Wax

Your above ideas are spot on.

The second picture is a little concerning to me. It does look like it could be early signs of the clear coat paint failing. Here is a link with more information on clear coat failure:

Clear Coat Failure Photo Archive

[cinemafunk]

Re: Spots on Roof? Water spots? Rust?

Thank you, everyone. I am planning on doing all of this weekend if there isn't another weekend-long rain event like this past weekend. I'll report back with updates.

I have looked up clear coat failure too and wasn't sure if it was that or the water spots. I think taking a measured approach is best by focusing on the water spots, and if what is left is indeed clear coat failure, I'll look into what can be done. It's an old car, but still in great condition. Less than 109K. I don't want to spend too much on having it repainted, but I see no reason not to keep it in reasonable shape either.