I have read that Claying a new car makes a difference to the paint job, and was wondering what everyone thinks about this? I have had my 05 TL for a month now, and use NXT wax. Is it really worth claying the car? What kind of difference does it really make, and if anybody happens to have pictures that would be great.

P.S. I am sorry if I posted this in the wrong section, was my best guess.

 

It's definetly worth claying. For one thing, you don't know how long your TL was sitting before the purchase. The dealer probably did a quick detail meaning wash and wax with no surface prep. Use this link as a reference for info about claying and why you should do it. Refer to this thread by exceldetail about proper claying techniques. It does make a world of difference.

 

Well, seeing as how your car is brand new, I don't think it'll be necessary. I'm a detail freak and I only see the necessity to clay bar the car once a year, maybe twice if it's bad (depending on the whether, conditions, debris, etc.)

But it's not gonna hurt the paint if you did (as long as it is done properly) so if you want to, go for it.

 

before you wax run you hand over the surface of the car after you wash and dry to see if you can feel any surface debri(it might feel slightly rough). it will indicate if you need to clay or not. after claying if you run your hand over the surface it should be super smooth. i usually always clay the car when detailing whether brand new or not. it just ensures that the surface completely clean and ready for polish or wax.

 

What is claying?

 

Your question may be better answered in our Wash and Wax Forum. Feel free to post your question there.

 

Claying your car is a peice of clay with a spray detailer which is sold in any auto parts. Its used to remove wax, overspray paint, bugs, and most debris on your paint. Once you clay your car it will feel smooth like glass.Depending where you live I clay my car twice a year..

1. Wash car
2. Dry
3. Clay entire car
4. Wash car
5. Dry
6. Polish
7. Wax car

Its a lot of work, but you will notice the diffrence when you fully detail your ride

 

It's worth the time to do it, the parts that have the plastic protective film from the manufacturer leave a film that you will remove only by claying it...trust me do a small section and you will be amazed at how dirty the surface that appears clean is actually dirty...

 

See post #2 and click on the words that are in bold. That will link you to the info you seek.