cleaning paint

[hobby]

Hi, I would like to know where cleanng the paint comes into play.
Is there a need to clean the paint after claying the car? Isan't it the same thing? Thanks.

[Mark2]

Re: cleaning paint

Claying takes away above contaminants and a paint cleaner takes away stuff in the paint. I use a paint cleaner regularly and when I clay I don't get much dirt on it. My guess is a good paint cleaner removes some above surface dirt also, but I am not sure. There is of course the 5 step system, do a search and u will find more info on that.
Have a good weekend

[gb387]

Re: cleaning paint

Here is a link to the Meguiar's 5-Step Paint Care Cycle, that should help you out.

Adding to what Mark2 posted... you want to use a paint cleaner after clay and yes it removes below surface paint defects such as swirls/fine scratches/etches and so on. As for is there a need? Well, you have to look at the surface of your vehicle and if there are some fine scratches swirls and so on that you want to remove its a needed step.

[N52]

Re: cleaning paint

So when you clay the car you actually have one step more so 6 steps right?

and it should be like:
1.wash
2.claying
3.cleaning
4.polishing
5.waxing
6.maintaning

Please correct me if i am wrong.

[Murr1525]

Re: cleaning paint

Well, Meguiars lumps claying and cleaning into the same step, and you would have 7 for that matter if you counted 2 coats ofwax. But yes, your overall list there looks correct.

Remember maintaining would be a step after future washes, in between your more complete details.

[N52]

Re: cleaning paint

Is it essential that you use QD right after waxing the car?

Yes maintaning is more of a long term thing that you do.

[Murr1525]

Re: cleaning paint

No, no QDing after waxing.

Unless a bird uses your car as target practice, you want to try not to QD at all for 12 hours or so.