new car--what to do

[Blackberry]

I just bought a new 2011 Dodge Challenger. The color is Blackberry Pearl. Its is a beautiful, deep color and I wnat to keep it that way.
The paint looks perfect. No swirls etc...

Can I just wash then use UW? Or do I go thru the whole regimen of wash, clay, polish/clean, wax?

I bought a Flex3401, yellow and black pads, and one of every Meguiars product(consumer line).

[Murr1525]

Re: new car--what to do

I like to at least throw in a cleaner/wax type product before waxing.

1. Wash
2. Clay
3. Cleaner/Wax or ColorX
4. Wax

[Blackberry]

Re: new car--what to do

So, even though it is brand new, you would still:
Clay?
Cleaner Wax?

[Murr1525]

Re: new car--what to do

Well, chances are it has sat in a lot for a month or so at the factory... shipped by rail somewhere.. sat on the car lot for a little bit... probably not going to be that clean. But, if it is, great, those steps will go pretty fast.

Using a cleaner/wax then wax is just as fast as 2 coats of wax, and starts you off covering all the steps, and with a clean surface.

[Blackberry]

Re: new car--what to do

Good points.
Thanks.

[Michael Stoops]

Re: new car--what to do

There is no set procedure for a new car, or any car for that matter. If all you want is to keep a new car looking decent for a long time, then something as simple as regular washing and very routine use of a good cleaner wax can do an excellent job. But if you're chasing the best shine and the highest clarity you can get (and this is rarely the way paint looks straight off the showroom floor) then you'll really want to step your game up.

You've already got a great tool in the Flex, and you've got the pads needed to do some great stuff. We don't see too many guys buying cars like the new Challenger and then coming to a detailing forum without wanting to take their paint to the next level. You've got the car, you've got the tools - so get to work.

Several weeks ago we had the opportunity to spend some time with a Bugatti Veyron Super Sport, and Motor Trend Magazine was here to document the process. The reporter from MT commented on how great the Bug looked when it arrived at our place and wondered what we could possibly do to improve it. We suspect you're in the same boat.

So..... using the two bucket method and a quality wash mitt and drying towels, properly wash and dry your Challenger. Claying is probably a good idea at this point, even though the car is new and the paint seems to be in great shape. After that, even though it appears swirl free, let's give it a once over with M205 Ultra Finishing Polish on a black foam pad, moderate speed on the tool, light pressure only. Work small areas at a time, about 2' x 2', and wipe the residue off before it dries. Work in sections like this until you've treated all painted surfaces of the car. At this point we suspect you'll be pretty amazed at how much better the paint looks - more clarity, depth of color, darkness, and overall sparkle to the metallic flecks in the paint. Next level achieved, even on a brand new car.

Now, with a fresh black pad, apply your wax of choice.

[Blackberry]

Re: new car--what to do

give it a once over with M205 Ultra Finishing Polish.

Thanks for the response. You are right on target. I want everyone to say, 'WOW that car looks great' even while it is parked next to others just like it. I have never considered that the paint could look 'better than new'. In fact, before reading this I would have thought that was just a sales pitch. However, it makes perfect sense now.

Which consumer line product is equal to M205(if any)?

[Murr1525]

Re: new car--what to do

Ultimate Polish would be close.