Anubus12

Just washed my car in the sun. I know, I know. Not supposed to, but I didn't have a place to do it out of the sun. Anyways, after washing, I noticed that there are a bunch of water spots. Short of washing the car again, what is the best way to remove them? What products?

TIA

MPJ

I think you have to wash it again. Some have recommended a 50/50 solution of water and vinegar to remove the water spots. After that, you'll have to wash the car. And I would recommend another coat of sealer/wax/etc.

Anubus12

i thought I have to use vinegar if the car has hard etched spots. It's a new car and never had water spots before. I am just lazy.

I read somewhere that "detailer" sprays may work for this?

TOGWT

Hard water contains alkaline minerals that can be removed with an acid (vinegar is a Acetic acid) use a 1:1 distilled water / vinegar solution, wash and then reapply a wax/sealant protection
JonM

sbuswell

screw using vinegar, thats too abrasive! Never put a moderate acid on your paint. Get some decent polish and those water spots are gone, or just wash it again and they shoudl go away unless they are really bad@!

TOGWT

I guess the choice is to remove the surface water spots with a mild acidic solution or use an abrasive to remove them along with some of the clear coat.

Anubus 12- you could also try-This glass cleaner (Glass Scrub™) removes insect smear, road oils, mineral deposits, lime scale, tree sap and more. A heavy-duty, cream cleanser that deep cleans auto glass safely and effectively without strong acids, alkalis, phosphates or solvents. It is specifically formulated to clean glass without scratching. The best time to use Glass Scrub is after you've washed the car but before you dry it. The glass must still be wet. I apply a small amount of product on a folded Glass Cleaning Cloth rubbing the glass in circular motions making sure to apply to all areas thoroughly. Flip the cloth to a clean dry surface and rub again. http://properautocare.com
JonM

PenguinQX

iTrader: (1)

This might sound stupid, but I've never needed more than just a damp cloth to wipe away water spots... I know it sounds really obvious, but make sure you try that first.

MegaKillTron

i just wash the car then re-wet it with the hose and dry it off sections or as a whole depending on how hot it is, works perfectly fine.

WHITE3.2TL-S

exceldetail

Fresh water spots arent a problem, due to over-sun-exposure. They will wipe easily away with either a damp MF or a spritz of QD. I would go with QD for the added benefit of slickness and protection. QD's are cheap insurance from bird droppings, sap, and, future water spots. And I would definetly use vinegar, even full strength, over polish.