I've got what looks like water spots on my '05 RL, but they're not. They didn't come off after a wash and I clayed the hood (the hood/roof/trunk are affected) and no change. I can't feel them-the surface is smooth. Is there any way to remove them? Is it acid rain or something that's etched the clearcoat? Any help appreciated.

 

Sounds like acid rain to me. Assuming the surface was smooth before claying, I am not sure claying would have done any good. Have you tried a polish?

I had an Infiniti with acid rain damage and they color-sanded it free of charge (that was in the early 90s when Infiniti was really into customer service). That would be a last resort but is also a possible fix.

The following is from a Mothers employee on their forum regarding the same situation:

 

Some pictures would probably help assess the problem.

 

Sounds like acid rain etching to me. I get acid rain etching alot from school, and good chemical based polishes for oxidation usually work for me.

 

I have some etching on my front left quarter panel. Thing is,... it is ONLY there, and nowhere else. I am trying to figure out how it got there LOL.

Anyway, if its etching you are going to have to use some polish like everyone else said.

 

Thanks for all the suggestions. I'll try the vinegar, although the spots aren't raised. Then I'll try the other ideas. Will let you know what happens.