Hello,

when should I clay my car?

Just got it in November 2006. New 2006 TL. Royal Blue Pearl.

I assume it is clear coated?

I went through a touchless car wash last week and ran my finger across. felt a few bumps but not sure still.

People say it is not good to clay car within the first year as it may be bad.

Can someone please offer me their expert advice please?

Thanks.

 

Clay it the day you buy it .. won't hurt it at all ... the year thing is someones imagination working over time.

 

I highly recommend claying (fine grade) a new car. Couple of reason for it. You don't know how the vehicle was transported. You don't know how long it sat on the lot. You don't know what the dealer did to prep your vehicle prior to pickup.

Yes, the vehicle has clear coat.

Not true about claying in the first year. Whoever stated that is sadly misinformed.

 

x2

exactly, if the vehicle was transported via train it probably has rail dust all over it and should be clayed, polished, and sealed right away.

to determine if the car need to be clayed or not take the clear wrapper from a pack of cigarettes or any other plastic wrap like that and put it over your finger tips. then, on a clean car, slowly run your fingers down the surface of the paint and you will be amazed the bumps and roughness you will feel. clay that area, dry it, and feel it with the plastic again...smooth as a babys bottom if ya clayed it right.

-Kevin

 

I clayed my car the weekend after I got my car. Not much crap on it but it just makes me feel better. I think go ahead and clay it when you get a chance, I don't really see why its a bad idea not to. Of course I swirl remove and waxed my car after. Keep everything safe

 

Clay, polish, and seal............Then protect your investment.

 

What clay bar does everyone recommend? I haven't clayed it yet, and I was planning on doing it soon. And how often would I clay bar it? I'm a noob to this part of cleaning. Thanks!

 

Lots of car owners wil opt for something like this , or like this is you prefer just clay and lube. Or if you see yourself doing your car, your wifes or girfriends a couple times a year, then you may also want to opt for something a little larger.
The Mothers kit is a good way to get your feet off the ground though in the proper car care maintenance scheme.
Usually twice annually is a good routine if its exposed to the "elements"......

 

You can go OTC with Megs or Mothers (Kragen, Pep Boys, etc.), they may even have Clay Magic. They are also available online at Exceldetail as well as other online detail sites.
IMO, 2X a year is sufficient. You should also read this thread.

 

You cannot really go wrong with claying the car anytime.


You also can't go wrong with any brand's clay. They are all literally produced by the same company, AutoWax Comapny/AutoMagic/ClayMagic

 

There are still some bogus clays laying around it wait for the unweary customer......Twice a year is usually suffice.....

 

Yea, I've seen them.

 

I really want to start this weekend. I bought the mothers clay but when I got to Pep boys I was overwhelmed by all the stuff they have. They do not sell UPP or UPPS.

What should I get from Pep for polish and for seal? I am new a this and will get a PC soon but not this month. Any help much appreciated

 

Im not sure what PB's sells, I know hey have Mothers. Megs, and TW. I would opt for Mothers Reflections Synthetic Wax actually.......Four Star UPP/UPPS is only available online....

 

So I could do Mothers Reflections Synthetic Wax but what would you recommend for polish?

 

Well without a PC, your results will be limited. You could go with either Mothers or Megs pre wax cleaners. If you can find a light grade polish, thats better yet!

 

You can clay whenever you want. Make sure to wash the car first