Hi Everyone,
Quick question - I use microfiber to dry but I notice fine scratches from this as well. Seems like everytime I try to wash an dry my car I risk scratching it. Is there something I'm doing wrong?

 

are your MF brand new? is their dust on it when wiping it? fine scratches are a part of life on a black car. keep it nicely waxed and buffed and it will minimize those fine hairs.

 

More than likely it's your washing habits that is causing the minor scratches. What is your process for washing your G and what do you use to wash it?

 

touchless wash, mf dry thats it.

 

yes brand new mf - just cut the labels off. Should I wash them first.

Can you post a process for OB cars? I know the two water method but even that produces scratches. Your just not using dirty water but there is still dirt on the car. How can you wash the car without scratching it as you will always be moving these particles around on the surface?

 

They recommend washing them first, but i don't think that would cause it. Likely washing habits. You mentioned touchless... You referring to an automated drive thru touchless wash? If so, you should avoid them as the high pressure water tends to grind dirt into the paint.

Wash and Wax frequently is the best way to maintain OB.

 

There is some controversy about touchless washes. Some say the detergents they use can be harsh and basically strips off the protection so you need to re-apply. Others say on really dirty cars, they don't clean all the dirt off, so when you dry with your MF towels, you are actually scratching the paint. To be sure it's clean, perhaps apply ONR as you wipe with your MF towels? Maybe others can chime in with their touchless wash experiences.

 

Exactly! You nailed it. They never get them clean and all the dirt off so never use a MF to dry after an automated wash. If you must do an automated wash, let it air dry.

 

The strong detergents alone are enough reason to stay away from automatic car washes.

OP, the best thing you can do is to develop proper washing habits and use the two bucket system. The majority of all paint imperfections come from poor washing habits.

 

would this work?

"Z-5 PRO Show Car Polish for Swirl Marks and Fine Scratches"

im thinking of buying this to help conceal some of the scratches.

 

Z5 is a fantastic sealant, however if you are purchasing it for the sole reason to hide scratches you will be very disappointed IMO.

 

so then how is it a fantastic product if it doesnt hide scratches? isn't its main purpose to conceal scratches? "Z-5 PRO Show Car Polish for Swirl Marks and Fine Scratches"


so then whats the sole purpose for this product?

thanks

 

I would like to know the answer as well. I dont have big scratches just in certain sunlight. Yeah I know its OB but there's gotta be a way to keep her looking tight and keep the swirls to a minimum. Nothing looks better clean but nothing is harder to keep up with.

 

Also are most surface scratches, ie white light lines and if you rub your finger over you can't feel them, able to be detailed out. Maybe I should just keep her clean and pay a detailer every 4-6 months?

 

Z5 is an awesome sealant, definitely one of the best I have used. I purchase Z5 because it's a great sealant, has awesome durability, and looks fantastic on darker colors. I highly recommend the product. BUT if you are purchasing Z5 to solely to hide all of your light scratches and swirls, you won't be happy with it. Yes it does have some fillers in it, however if you expect your swirls will be gone after applying it, you'll be disappointed. If you are serious about keeping your paint surface in great shape, you'll really need to pick up a PC or a UDM along with a good polish.