Clay and polish after the very first wash?

[davam1]

Guys,
Point me to the threads on this. I have a car that was built 4/13, expecting delivery May 7th. Should I clay and polish it for wax? If clay is not needed, is polish also not needed for the very first application onto new paint?

[gb387]

Re: Clay and polish after the very first wash?

Here is a good thread: Suggested Products for Taking Care of a New Car

Yes, it is a good idea to clay a new vehicle... clay will remove any bonded contaminates left over from transportation. Once you clay, polish and add a quality wax. Are you going to be working by hand?

Meguiar's 5-Step Paint Care Cycle

[CWM3]

Re: Clay and polish after the very first wash?

I used a claybar after buying my vehicle and while there wasn't a ton of stuff on the paint there were some things. Always good to start fresh.

[Michael Stoops]

Re: Clay and polish after the very first wash?

I agree with claying a new car but only an evaluation after that step will tell you if you need to polish or not. Most cars I see on the lot or even in the showroom have swirls in them so I'd polish those. If you're lucky and your car is pretty swirl free then a light paint cleaner would likely be a good final prep step. But again, that's ultimately up to you.

[J. A. Michaels]

Re: Clay and polish after the very first wash?

I agree with claying a new car but only an evaluation after that step will tell you if you need to polish or not. Most cars I see on the lot or even in the showroom have swirls in them so I'd polish those. If you're lucky and your car is pretty swirl free then a light paint cleaner would likely be a good final prep step. But again, that's ultimately up to you.

Just because the car is new does not insure that its completely clean. Evaluate the surface after you take delivery. Only you can be the judge. Make the decision and you will be fine. Congrats on your new car.

[davam1]

Re: Clay and polish after the very first wash?

thanks guys

[gb387]

Re: Clay and polish after the very first wash?

Here is a good thread: Suggested Products for Taking Care of a New Car

Yes, it is a good idea to clay a new vehicle... clay will remove any bonded contaminates left over from transportation. Once you clay, polish and add a quality wax. Are you going to be working by hand?

Meguiar's 5-Step Paint Care Cycle

I was thinking pure polish on a new vehicle but I guess I wasn't clear, as Mike pointed out evaluate the surface and go from there.