Re-claying car?

[scanlessfool]

I last clayed my car a little less then 2 months ago and was wondering, is it necessary to do so again if I was going to either compound, polish, or wax the car? For what it's worth, the car always sits outside and is exposed to the elements.

[Mark58]

Re: Re-claying car?

I would say YES clay it. After 2 months outside it should need it again unless you kept it washed and cleaned.

[Marc08EX]

Re: Re-claying car?

It depends. Did you regularly wash it in the past 2 months? Was it always garaged especially overnight? Do you park anywhere near an industrial complex or near an airport? All these (or more) come into play on how fast particulates bond to your paint's surface.

I would suggest doing the baggie test once again or at least running your hand against the paint. If it's still smooth then you might not need to clay it again. If you have extra time then do a test spot on a horizontal surface of your car. If you're picking up something then chances are you need to clay. If not then you're good to go.

You'd be surprised at how fast dirt bonds to the paint. My wife's car sits outside 24/7 in CA. As the residents of CA know (lucky you!!!), the weather is cool and pleasant that it creates condensation every morning. This alone can accelerate the bonding of dirt to the paint. To top that off, the car is only washed once a month. I clayed and waxed this car only to find out that the paint's surface was very rough after 2 MONTHS!!!! I couldn't believe it myself.

[scanlessfool]

Re: Re-claying car?

Thank you everyone for your quick responses. I think the best thing probably would be the baggie test. The car does sit outside everyday and it does not help that I work in a park. I try my best to maintain it, but as of late, I have not had the opportunity to do so.

[Marc08EX]

Re: Re-claying car?

I'm curious how often do you wash your car? Do you quick detail it as well?

BTW, I also have an Accord.

[Mark58]

Re: Re-claying car?

Quick detail between washes which are about once per month. My car is in garage and I use my truck for everyday ride which gets washed once or twice a yr. LOL

[scanlessfool]

Re: Re-claying car?

I'm curious how often do you wash your car? Do you quick detail it as well?

BTW, I also have an Accord.

Since the car is kept outside 24/7 and is daily driven, I try to do it every 2 weeks and the most, a month.

Quick detail between washes which are about once per month. My car is in garage and I use my truck for everyday ride which gets washed once or twice a yr. LOL

In regards to quick detailing the car, I'm extremely hesitant to. As I mentioned above, because my car is not garaged and is always outside, there is quite a build up of dust. My concern is moving particles on the body and etching into the paint resulting in scratches, etc.

I'd like to get people's take on quick detailing a car that sits outside all the time and in a dusty environment such as Southern California.

[Murr1525]

Re: Re-claying car?

Well, you would just need to QD the panel/s you are working on. Adding a little swirl or two wouldnt be as bad then. Maybe dont QD the panels you fixed up.

Also, some people will use something like a California Duster, and then QD.

[Tuck91]

Re: Re-claying car?

I would clay if you have time.

As Marc stated, contamination can build quickly.