 |  | | | In part one ("Wax Wisdom") of this saga, we discussed the key things you need to know before you embark on the journey to flawless paint. Now you're ready for the real work.
STEPS
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Wash
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Every good detailing starts with a thorough washing. The key is to remove as much dirt as possible to prevent it from being scraped across the paint during the wax process. Be sure to use a car wash-specific soap. Check inside cracks, creases, and around corners to make sure that all debris is removed. Follow this step with a fresh rinse and thorough drying. Removing all remnants of water is essential, so it doesn't interfere with the following steps.
Clay
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The next step is to remove all contaminants and microscopic pollutants that have become embedded in your paint BEFORE you apply the wax. Would da Vinci paint on a dirty canvas? Of course not—and neither should you.
By far the best way to remove contaminants these days is with a clay bar made specifically for automotive detailing. Clay bars, when run across the surface of your paint, create enough friction to pull out the dust, metal, and other particles lodged in your paint without causing damage to the paint itself. It is very important (as with all detailing products) to read the directions carefully before using your clay bar. Most bars require a specific lubricant that will help them slide smoothly across the surface without leaving deposits. While using the bar, be sure to knead it regularly to circulate the particles now in the clay away from your paint.
If you drop the clay bar on the ground, throw it away and do not continue to use it. Chances are it will have picked up some large particles that, when rubbed across your paint, will likely cause minor and possibly severe damage. The cost of a new clay bar is minor in comparison to the cost of a new paint job.
Finally, know that clay bars, along with the unwanted surface contaminants, will also remove wax, so be sure you're ready to wax following this procedure or your paint will be left unprotected.
Polish
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Once you've removed all the impurities in your paint, you're ready to take on the countless little, and not so little, dings and scratches. Polishing is a process that smoothes the paint's surface by rounding off the harsh edges of minor imperfections, leaving your paint shining and clean.
When applying, if using a liquid polish, pour the solution onto a clean towel and then rub evenly over the paint's surface. Pouring the polish directly on the car may be tempting, but it can leave dark streaks—and you will certainly burn through polish much faster. Once in process, you may work in whatever direction you like, circles or straight lines. When rubbing out scratches, move across the scratch, not along its length, to yield the best results. Don't rub too hard as this can damage your car's finish. Let the polish do the work.
Tackle the entire vehicle one body panel at time and make sure to rotate your applicator and towel regularly. The cleaner these are, the better the results you'll see. Having clean towels handy will help you work faster. They can also be helpful for wiping away excess polish from cracks and trim. By the time you're finished polishing, you'll be able to see and feel a noticeable difference from when you began.
Seal
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Although polishing is a highly effective way to smooth out your paint's surface, there still may be work to do. Larger scratches are now rounded on the edges, but they are not completely in line with the surface. In this case, a sealer/glaze will do the trick. Sealers and glazes can fill in the minor depressions leaving a perfectly flat surface for waxing. This step is not essential, but for those looking for that first-class shine, it's a great help.
Wax
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Now you're finally ready for the grand finale. Waxing is the process that will provide a well-earned protective layer to your now flawless paint. To apply the wax, use long even strokes, paying special attention to even application. Lay down just enough wax to cover the surface; more is not better. Once the wax has dried to a dull haze, buff vigorously with a clean cotton towel until no more wax can be seen, or more importantly felt, leaving only a high shine. After waxing the entire vehicle, be sure to go back and check for any excess you might have missed along the way.
Once you've completed these five simple steps, you'll have a refreshed exterior worthy of admiration. The best part is that you'll more than likely extended the life of your paint and the value of your vehicle.
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