Car Detailing - What products are your go to?

[Bossxr8]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Scholl S20 Black is a one step compound that is very easy to use and should do what you need. I started using it after seeing a few members on here get great results with it.

https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...-step-compound

image


Meguire's Ultimate Compound should do the trick too, although S20 is much more forgiving.

https://www.meguiars.com.au/product/ultimate-compound/

I've used the ultimate compound before. Didn't do much. I will try this scholl S20.

[Express]

Originally Posted by Bossxr8

What would you guys recommend to get out swirl marks with a DA?

Regular polishes won’t get them out. Need something a bit stronger.

Menzerna Polishes

https://www.carcareproducts.com.au/m...SAAEgI-ifD_BwE


Menzerna 3 Step Polishing Kit - for swirl marks, light scratches & maximum gloss

https://www.carcareproducts.com.au/m...mpler-kit.html


Menzerna Medium Cut Polish - for light swirls

https://www.carcareproducts.com.au/m...400-250ml.html


Menzerna One Step Polish 3 in 1 - for light swirls

https://www.carcareproducts.com.au/3-in-1-1l.html




.

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by Bossxr8

I've used the ultimate compound before. Didn't do much. I will try this scholl S20.

I haven't had great success with Ultimate Compound either. I have heard others have had some good results, so I'm glad its not just me not particularly impressed with it.

As Express posted, have a look at Menzerna Polishes too, they are top notch. My polisher came with selection of Menzerna products and I liked the results achieved from them.

[Express]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

I haven't had great success with Ultimate Compound either. I have heard others have had some good results, so I'm glad its not just me not particularly impressed with it.

As Express posted, have a look at Menzerna Polishes too, they are top notch. My polisher came with selection of Menzerna products and I liked the results achieved from them.

I’ve been using Menzerna to do paint correction for over 15 years and it’s a high quality polish and at a realistic price that will remove most defects and marks when teamed with a rotary or DA and the right pads.

I have a number of grades which I use depending I what I’m trying to achieve, start with a finer cut if you are unsure and the same goes when choosing a pad, use something less aggressive to begin with.

If you’re in doubt about the polish/pad combo for your particular problem asked a reputable seller and they’ll give you some good advice on a starting point.




.

[CyberWasp]

Also I am interested if people can post the best way to clean and maintain the fake leather seats found in most cars these days.
I am assuming there might be differences on what products to use, compared to proper leather seats.
I use the Aerospace 303 but that is probably not the best option and is not for cleaning them anyway.

[Express]

Originally Posted by CyberWasp

Also I am interested if people can post the best way to clean and maintain the fake leather seats found in most cars these days.
I am assuming there might be differences on what products to use, compared to proper leather seats.
I use the Aerospace 303 but that is probably not the best option and is not for cleaning them anyway.

The good thing about 303 Aerospace Protectant is it also does a good job at cleaning if you are not trying to remove stubborn stains.

I use Zaino Z9 Leather Cleaner in my cars, it seems to do just as good a job with the fake stuff as it does with the real deal.

https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...-spray-cleaner


This could be worth a try.

https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...terior-cleaner


https://www.waxit.com.au/collections/interior-cleaners



.

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by CyberWasp

Also I am interested if people can post the best way to clean and maintain the fake leather seats found in most cars these days.
I am assuming there might be differences on what products to use, compared to proper leather seats.
I use the Aerospace 303 but that is probably not the best option and is not for cleaning them anyway.

303 is absolutely fine on modern "leather" trim.

I use NV Cleanse and NV Nourish on leather, with Cleanse only used occasionally. Nourish makes the leather feel softer and doesn't leave a hideous shiny finish.

https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...eather-cleaner
https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...ish-leather-qd





Bowden's Own make simple to use cleaning and protecting products that are well worth a look.

https://www.supercheapauto.com.au/p/...010303#start=1
https://www.supercheapauto.com.au/p/...id=SCA01010303



And I really like Autoglym Leather Care Balm, although it is on the shiny side finish wise. They also make a cleaner if required.

https://www.supercheapauto.com.au/p/...10303#start=17
https://www.supercheapauto.com.au/p/...10303#start=12

[DFB FGXR6]

Let’s talk Drying Aids.

The term “Drying Aid” is the catchy way of saying “drying your car at the same time as applying a quick detailer”.

There are a couple of reasons to use a Drying Aid when drying your car.

Firstly, it adds lubrication to help prevent “love marks” whilst wiping your drying towel against the paint. Strangely, a damp towel dries a car easier, even better if that dampness provides some lubricating qualities. Secondly, a Drying Aid adds an extra layer of either protection or gloss, sometimes both, to the vehicles paint.

A drying aid can be either a Quick Detailer, Spray Wax or Waterless Wash and the options for products like these are endless.



Today’s test subject is my fabulous XR6, using Meguiars Last Touch and a large Tempest drying towel.

After blowing most of the water off the car, add 4 to 5 sprays of your chosen product to both sides of your towel.







Then apply a few sprays of the product to the car, working on 1 to 2 panels at a time. Wipe with your towel to both distribute the product and remove the remaining water from the paint surface. This is the beauty of this drying method, drying and adding shine in one step.







As you work your way around the vehicle, the towel will become loaded up with product, reducing the amount you need to spray directly on the car.

Continue with the same process, using a separate towel, for the door jams.



A couple of notes –

-If your towel becomes saturated, it means that not enough water was removed during the blowing stage. Spend a little extra time at this step, alternatively swap to a second towel. A large drying towel like the Big Green Sucker can dry an entire car with correct technique.

-I have found that each quick detailer product needs its own technique. Some may require a follow up wipe with a second cloth to avoid streaking, CarPro EliXir for example. One of the reasons I love Meguiars Last Touch as a Drying Aid is that any reside seems to evaporate off, leaving the surface streak free with minimal towel work. I will grab this product when time is not on my side. Another benefit is it’s cost effectiveness, large 3.8lt bottles are often on special from the Big Box stores, allowing you to decant it into a high quality spray bottle.

-Please, please don’t use a Chamois, either natural leather or synthetic. Those type of products are more likely to inflict paint marring. Trust me, a plush microfibre drying towel is much more enjoyable way of drying your car, and no wringing required.

Here are a few links to the towels and products I like to use during this process.

CarPro EliXir - https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...ick-detailer-1
NV Boost – https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...21302789079129
Meguiars Last Touch – https://www.meguiars.com.au/product/...etailer-3-8-l/
Bowden's Own Boss Gloss - https://www.bowdensown.com.au/boss-gloss
Tempest Drying Towel – https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...h-drying-towel
Bowden’s Own Big Green Sucker – https://www.bowdensown.com.au/the-big-green-sucker
Kwazar Sprayer - https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...20034637299801

[CyberWasp]

I have the CarPro EliXir and like you say it needs a second towel to buff off streaking.
You give great advice and information.

Things are moving fast in the detailing world. Graphene is the new buzz word.
This seems to be the 1st cab off the rank in next generation products, that looks set to replace SiO2 Based Products over time.
The main claim to fame seems to be that it lasts twice as long , better gloss, better at preventing water spotting, and can be applied in sunlight.



It is only available in the USA at the moment.

Mark my words, this is only the 1st release by 1 company at a consumer grade level / application. (There are others around that have to be professionally applied like a ceramic coat)
Watch the flood gates open over the coming months when each company comes up with there spin on this product / technology.

There are already plenty of you tube videos if anyone is interested.

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by CyberWasp

I have the CarPro EliXir and like you say it needs a second towel to buff off streaking.
You give great advice and information.

Things are moving fast in the detailing world. Graphene is the new buzz word.
This seems to be the 1st cab off the rank in next generation products, that looks set to replace SiO2 Based Products over time.
The main claim to fame seems to be that it lasts twice as long , better gloss, better at preventing water spotting, and can be applied in sunlight.

image

It is only available in the USA at the moment.

Mark my words, this is only the 1st release by 1 company at a consumer grade level / application. (There are others around that have to be professionally applied like a ceramic coat)
Watch the flood gates open over the coming months when each company comes up with there spin on this product / technology.

There are already plenty of you tube videos if anyone is interested.

Yes, I'm watching with interest with regards to 303 Graphene, and Graphene in general. Having watched some reviews, it seems to be a great product. 303 Graphene is still SiO2 based so I don't think it is revolutionary, but more of an evolution.

[DFB FGXR6]

Repco have Bowden's Own products on special at the moment, 35% Off.

https://www.repco.com.au/en/brands/b...hwazZZaUZZdiJ9

[jstanovic]

Was at a client's house today, I came outside and there was a strong smell of kero. Turns out this 83 year old lady washes her car with water and kero. Car is 10 years old, never been cleaned by anyone but her and only with water and kero, never polished or anything else. The paint was immaculate, looks like it was polished yesterday. I guess it didn't have heaps of kms on it but it still looked brand new.

[fordomatic]

Originally Posted by fiestaz

After using the bissell today, it’s a great investment for car seats and car interiors. Along with smaller jobs around the home (lounge, small rug). I would recommend that. But also as above fabracadra is good too.

Mate, do yourself a favour, don't waste money on the bowdens fabra cadabra. Go to Aldi and get their pre soak spray. It cost like $2.50 and arguably better than the Bowdens stuff. When im cleaning interiors this is what i use as a pre soak before extraction.

Lot's of the professional guys are doing this also, it's where I found out about it.

https://www.aldi.com.au/en/groceries...l-degreaser-2/

[fordomatic]

Originally Posted by jstanovic

Was at a client's house today, I came outside and there was a strong smell of kero. Turns out this 83 year old lady washes her car with water and kero. Car is 10 years old, never been cleaned by anyone but her and only with water and kero, never polished or anything else. The paint was immaculate, looks like it was polished yesterday. I guess it didn't have heaps of kms on it but it still looked brand new.

My uncle washes his truck using kero as a pre-soak and then truck wash in a gurney, gets all the grime off much more easily. A lot of older people seem to use this method. Just like a lot of older people that pay 15-25k for a paint job on their rat rod and then wipe the dust off at shows with a terry towel

I can guarantee you her paint is full of imperfections though, but not all of us are OCD so i'm sure the results are fine for her.

[FTE217]

As mentioned elsewhere new additions arrived Thursday with my fav model FGX race car



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Qld-RTV]

depending on the level of the rainwater tanks at home I either use chemtech CT18 or I go and spend $10 at the local carwash.... though thats only about every 3-4 months

[DFB FGXR6]

Exhaust Tips!

I often wonder why people go to the effort of detailing their car but then forget to clean the exhaust tips. It really lets the side down when this step is forgotten.

The best time to clean exhaust tips is straight after the wheels. I use a wheel cleaning brush or wash mitt to clean the outside of the tip, followed by removing the built up carbon inside the pipe. I use the same soap/water bucket as the wheels but a wheel cleaner can also be used for neglected tips.







I have also found this P21S Polishing soap a useful addition to my arsenal.
https://www.waxit.com.au/products/p21s-polishing-soap



After washing and while still wet, wipe the supplied sponge against the soap, gently polish the tips and then rinse.



I follow up with a water activated spray sealant, CarPro Hydr02 in this case.



The end result is shiny and clean exhaust tips.

[fiestaz]

Good point DFB. My ST has this nice (in my opinion) weirdly shaped exhaust. Every ST I see it is black as anything. No one seems to want to run a sponge past it!

Those tips of yours look great!

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by fiestaz

Good point DFB. My ST has this nice (in my opinion) weirdly shaped exhaust. Every ST I see it is black as anything. No one seems to want to run a sponge past it!

Those tips of yours look great!

These guys?



I love those tips, just a bit different.

There is a Focus ST in my area with them looking like the blue car below. I just want to go and clean them on the quite.

[fiestaz]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

These guys?

image

I love those tips, just a bit different.

There is a Focus ST in my area with them looking like the blue car below. I just want to go and clean them on the quite.

image

Yep that’s the ones!

I haven’t given mine a good polish in some time but I always run the sponge over it (the wheel sponge of course)

[T3rminator]

Does anyone use a car wash mop, like those at the car wash places? Or is that a no no? If yes, which is best? I'm getting lazy

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by T3rminator

Does anyone use a car wash mop, like those at the car wash places? Or is that a no no? If yes, which is best? I'm getting lazy

Something like this would be a better option than a brush for paintwork.

https://store.primefinish.com.au/col...ipole-full-kit

[CyberWasp]

Here is guy who buys cheap neglected nuggets on death row from auctions, and gives them a clean up, and a new life and makes a small profit.

You can learn a lot from seeing people detail the dirtiest / worst examples.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N0__PoUe0Bg

On a side, is there anyway in this country you can buy a car for $400.00 like this guy does from auctions anywhere and attempt a similar process?

[fordomatic]

Originally Posted by CyberWasp

On a side, is there anyway in this country you can buy a car for $400.00 like this guy does from auctions anywhere and attempt a similar process?

Plenty of them at Pickles auctions every week.

[anobserver]

Meguiars Last Touch – https://www.meguiars.com.au/product/...etailer-3-8-l/
Bowden's Own Boss Gloss - https://www.bowdensown.com.au/boss-gloss

Hey all,

Ive been using Meguires wet look for some time. The paint is well preserved and the clear coat is intact. But id like to give it a bit more glossy shine, make it pop a bit more.

Would one of the products above be appropriate?

Thanks in advance,

[FTE217]

I'm sure Mr Detail DFB will give you a more detailed post.
If the paint and clear coat is a ok as mentioned got to step up from the megs polish imo.
I'm a Zaino, Poorboys fan topped up with NV Jet or Lustre - these products make the paint finish pop and there's others but a start.

Talking Bowdens, I just used the last of After Glow having washed the Sprint the other day, nice finish gave it the pop look. Not sure I'll buy again, I'll use NV Jet or Lustre from here on this product has won me over.

[anobserver]

Thanks for those suggestions, theres probably a lot of options out there. Hard to know where to start looking.

The car has lived in a garage all but 3 months of its 15 year life, so far it seems to be one of the few that has retained its clear coat...

https://www.betootaadvocate.com/advo...-1990s-magnas/

[FTE217]

oh for sure so many have their likes dislikes.
One thing I have learnt in all my years loving my Fords, is the threads and members here.
You can spend hours on You Tube and varying supplier sites BUT nothing beats fellow owners and users of products backed up with pics and comments.
So I take these peoples opinions better than companies sales pitchs etc, save yourself the time and just look up the threads here and ask.
Everyone is most accomodating and then you make your mind up.
Forgot to mention a wax some have used that makes the finish pop is Collinite Wax 845, I've bought it yet to use but the comments by some here its damn good.
Bit of a technique using it mentioned in this thread.

Edit, by the way, here's your shopping candy store site
https://www.waxit.com.au/?utm_campai...TWVTZzNnIn0%3D

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by anobserver

Meguiars Last Touch – https://www.meguiars.com.au/product/...etailer-3-8-l/
Bowden's Own Boss Gloss - https://www.bowdensown.com.au/boss-gloss

Hey all,

Ive been using Meguires wet look for some time. The paint is well preserved and the clear coat is intact. But id like to give it a bit more glossy shine, make it pop a bit more.

Would one of the products above be appropriate?

Thanks in advance,

Both of the above products listed are great products but will only last until the next wash.

There are countless ways to add gloss to a cars paint, but as FTE217 has suggested, NV Nova Lustre and Jet are both excellent choices.

The best way to buy them is in the form of Waxit's Spray Coating Kit, which includes both products and microfibre cloths.
https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...ay-coating-kit





Lustre provides exceptional levels of gloss and has the ability to hide minor imperfections. Jet adds to the gloss of Lustre with added water beading and the ability to repel other contaminants. If you intend to use both, Lustre is applied first, allowing 2 hours to cure, then Jet afterwards.

I applied a layer of Jet to the Mustang yesterday as a topper to Collinite 845. Gloss levels are off the scale, if I do say so myself!

[CyberWasp]

What do you use on the front grille to shine/ clean up all the nooks and grannies on the Mustang?
The Honeycomb is hard to get into to make look clean.
I am referring more so to the implement to use for least amount of effort.