Clay barring

[Mr.Dan]

How often do i need to clay bar? Would it be safe on the paint if i wash and dry, and then go straight to the polishing and waxing steps without clay barring?

 

[mblgjr]

Clay isn't always necessary. If you can see or feel dirt/imperfections stuck on your paint, then it is likely worth the effort to use clay.



If you keep your car in good shape and the surface feels slick/clean, then its probably not worth your time and you can go straight to polishing.



If this is the first time for the car to be polished, then I would suggest that you invest your time to do so now. It will yield better results overall.

 

[abbeysdad]

Put your hand inside a regular sandwich bag (not the heavier freezer type) and run your hand over the surface of the clean vehicle. Any bumps you feel are suface contaminants that will likely only come off by using detail clay.



Even new cars can easily fail the above test. I've read that brake dust, rail dust, polution fallout and your basic grime can all imbed itself into your paint and won't come loose with regular washing. A careful treatment with detailing clay can get back to the paint level - a good place to start before polishing and a finish treatment.