Auto Detailing Tips: is this the BIGGEST lie??!! (the clay bar warning)

[@martinp.9853]

I leave my car dirty that way you can't see any scratches. Works every time lol

[@autofetishdetail]

Valid strategy. I think 90% of the people in my area of the world are using the same strategy!!

[@martinp.9853]

@@autofetishdetail of course I do love a freshly detailed car but with work and family it's hard to find the time to keep it clean all the time.

[@tunedownforwhat1639]

@@martinp.9853 Its true its a challenge

[@robertsattler9469]

It’s called patina 😆

[@BarryMaskell]

My wife scratches and dints our car then we don’t have to worry about detailing

[@misterprivateeye]

Thanks for the video. Great information for newbies! clay bar used as part of a process will give you excellent results, never use clay bar as a stand alone action. In detailing world it is referred to as the 5 step detailing process: 1. Wash your car to remove most dirt 2. Clay your car to remove contamination, this will make polishing much easier 3. Use a compound to polish out the existing swirls and swirls made by claying 4. Nourish your paint by using a polish, this will give a deep shine 5. Protect your paint by waxing. You can additionally add a 6th step: use a quick detailer spray to give that last finish. But again: don’t use a clay bar without compounding afterwards. On the other other don’t wax your car without compounding first as it will trap dirt between wax and paint. Don’t compound without claying first because you will be rubbing the contamination into the paint.

[@rarespetrusamartean5433]

"Nourish your paint by using a polish" HUH? do you think you're doing skincare? lol

[@billygilbert7911]

I was trained that you always have to polish a vehicle after claying. Keep checking the clay for small particles that will scratch the surface.

[@ricksrestorations7589]

Use a compound with no grit. Like something designed for swirl mark removal

[@luxuryshine8507]

True ;-) and often work in small areas and knead the claybar often enough to get the dirt away.

[@keithmelling8530]

Natural clay bars back in the day were gritty and marred but lot less now with synthetic clay. I use plumbers putty with zero marring and picks out contaminates

[@furstyferret81]

Play at 1.5x speed to make this bearable!

[@realsilverado157]

​@@luxuryshine8507in surprised more guys dont say this. Keep kneading the clay. Lowering chances of marring with contaminants.

[@mrawesomeDK]

There's no reason to clay your car unless you intend on doing paint correction. It's just another tool in the toolbox. Clay barring is NOT a step in the process of cleaning your car - It's a step in the process of restoring depth and shine to your paint. At the very least clay barring should always be followed up with at least a polish.....and of course a wax or ceramic coating. Never clay bar your car as a routine in your cleaning process.

[@williamsmarr9500]

As a detailer I agree 100%. I always tell customers you never clay bar unless you're going to correct paint, meaning at least a polish. Doesn't HAVE to be a compound. That rule will save you. On the flip side, NEVER correct paint before you clay paint....or at least test the paint (hand in sandwich bag and rub easily across paint ).

[@pilgrim985]

So I’m a little confused… I have a fairly new vehicle (2020 Tacoma) and I take really good care of it. In a few months I’m planning on claying, (with a lite clay) then applying a ceramic coating afterwards. Then apply a glaze, then a wax. Should I not clay it ? My truck doesn’t have any scratches, I definitely don’t need paint correction. If you’re able to advise me, I’d appreciate it! Thanks!

[@mrawesomeDK]

​@@pilgrim985 If you take care of your car regularly, the chance that you have imbedded contaminants are very small. Especially on a newer car. A glaze is technically a sort of paint correction, as it's intented to fill out and obscure small scratches or imperfections. Furthermore, a glaze is easily removed by any prolonged exposure to the elements. Which means it will break down over time. Instead I'll advise a claying, followed by a 1-step polish, and a professional ceramic coating (no name-dropping), with lifetime warranty. It's not cheap though, and I can understand why you wouldn't. But unles you intend on a polish before applying the glaze, I'd say you're wasting time by claying. And that's under the condition that you keep your paint clean, by hand-washing your car at least once a week. But if you insist, sure you can do it. One time is very unlikely to damage your paint. The thing you should really keep in mind, is that claying your car shouldn't be part of your regular routine.

[@pilgrim985]

@@mrawesomeDK I only clay my vehicle once a year and then apply a sealant of some sort followed by a glaze and then a wax. I really do appreciate you taking the time to answer my questions. Thank You!

[@Agent007mw3]

Is it ok to clay bar the windshield? Will it leave the scratches ?

[@desserthound]

What about sap from trees? We hit the trails with our Jeep. We have experienced a lot of rubbing from branches and tree sap

[@mmmjacqui3074]

Yes does claying remove contsimanation of tree sap? I have a brand new Kia wit tree sap on roof looks like the night sky & on plastic moulds& sun roof 😤

[@latrace1986]

The only time I claybarred a vehicle was an old white van I had. I sprayed so much of that lube stuff and put very little pressure on the clay bar and absolutely covered the entire vehicle in little surface scratches. I took it to a detailer to prevent any further damage and after they compounded and polished, the finish on the vehicle was incredibly smooth to the touch and all of the little fine abrasions were gone.

[@jayviz]

I noticed how great yout mirror looked. I have piano black trim around my car windows. It shows every fingerprint and scratch. Any suggestions? Clay bar? Polish?

[@nadermazari3334]

Very informative video. I absolutely agree. The "rubbing" action of one material against another will always cause scratches. Most simply cannot be seen with the naked eye. When you polish any material, you are removing a very small amount of the surface material. These are natural laws and there is no getting around it. However I think (when it comes to clay bars) more damage is done when it is not folded over properly or is over used. The removed material/contaminants already embedded in the bar will definately scratch. Thus I am quite liberal in my use of clay bars. Since we generally do not use clay bars on a weekly basis on the same car, I use 1 complete bar to do 1 vehicle. It minimizes the chance of severely scratching the paint to the point where these become obvious.

[@jackdale9249]

best ever is to use Bilt Hamber clay fr UK they have their own clay mine ! avail in S , M, H grades it is so pure they say and it is TRUE ! you can use just plain water ! try it let me know what you think ? and update your video w/an addendum ? thx Jack

[@nickb5091]

Great video, I noticed the CYA on all the products. I was wondering… If I haven’t washed my car for quite some time and all I wish to do is wash and wax it, would waxing without claying beforehand be worse for the paint than claying before waxing? In other words, will the act of waxing the car without claying it, end up scratching the paint worse, or will the contamination remain in place and not get spread around because it would hypothetically stay in place unless I needed clay to remove it? I’m sure I’m over thinking it, but I have a black vehicle though and I’m just worried about scratching up the paint. I don’t own a dual action polisher to follow up with but would like to take better care of my vehicle until I can save up for one. Thank you kindly and have a great day!

[@jorgeraygoza-t8z]

Thank you for sharing, sir. My truck is a 2020 Tacoma and it still has good paint, you recommend a good polish over clay bar any day. ?

[@wayno454]

Anything you rub on your paint will scratch it to some degree. Whether it be a wash mitten, chamois or a microfiber cloth. I have used a clay bar with excellent results and will continue to do so in the future. Just make sure you keep your clay as clean as possible.

[@breddarabbit6550]

Thank you so much! Your honest, no-bs style of delivery de-mystified a lot of this stuff for me.

[@smykster007]

Thanks for the video man. I Clayed my car in preparation for a polish and used optimum No rinse as a clay lube at the right proportions. I definitely scratched my paint up pretty good in some areas where the clay picked something up and dragged it. I felt like such an idiot afterwards like I did something wrong, but it turns out this is pretty much what happens.

[@chrisnorton4778]

Hey Darren question when you mean by scratching your paint with clay bar as in deep scratches, and if I just want to wax it right after clay baring can you use a cleaner wax

[@jeffm3072]

The industry doesn’t say anything cause it’s another product they can sell

[@Subpac_ww2]

Another two products! The bar AND the "lube".

[@jameswatkins9417]

You helped me alot I've been detailing for a yr now but was always skeptical on clay baring fearing that I would mess up a client's car. Hopefully you or I or someone can come up with a solution that removes over spray without rubbing it with

[@robcastaneda1]

a car painters damaged the paint of my new car (3 months) with spray paint dots, yesterday i used a blue clay bar, and removed all the paint dots on the crystals, i also used on a few metallic parts for test, with no visible scratches and the thing removed the spray dots. Should i continue using it on the entire car? Greetings.

[@mahntasticfilms6906]

I’m pretty new to detailing my car. Just got a new vehicle 2022 and would love to protect it from the elements and bird poops and what not. Should I skip the clay bar and just wash my car… apply Jetseal pain protection (chemical guys) and carnuaba wax? What do you think ?

[@mili224]

I'm going to try a clay bar for the first time on a 2011 black Escape. I currently have some debris on the hood that won't come off with normal wash/wax process. My question is; can I use my existing Nu Finish liquid polish as the "polish" step after the clay bar? Or should I get yet another true dedicated polishing product? Nu Finish is considered a polish, but is it the proper type of polish for a post clay treatment? Thanks.

[@hardleyvries2146]

Darren can I also use a rubbing compound and apply by hand to remove those microscopic marring and scratches caused by claybar or mitting?

[@aries6776]

When a professional detailer chooses a white car, I know what colour my new car is going to be! Great video. I think I'll just stick to waxing my (black) car.

[@OuzoLouGarage]

Soap and water works great for a clay lube. And if you want to use a detail spray make your own with a Rinseless wash product.

[@brandon-vz9bg]

would that be a regular car soap or dish soap?

[@brucel7794]

@@brandon-vz9bg I don't know if Ouzo uses dish soap or car wash soap. But from what I have seen in these videos and from friends in the detailing business. You should never us dish soap for washing/detailing your vehicle.

[@4GuitarTrance]

@@brucel7794 Dish soap is way too harsh for an auto finish. It strips it of protectants.

[@aguilassina7605]

Dish soap should only be use on a car if you are washing to start sanding it for prep work or if washing to get ready to paint dish soap removes all protective on paint like wax polish and grease

[@OuzoLouGarage]

@@brucel7794 I only use dish soap to help strip an wax or sealant.

[@jilliebeans]

I once clay barred a Porsche and it left the deepest scratches that was not removable with any DA polisher. This was after using the same clay bar for a Tesla and GMC, which had no problem compounding after. Just be careful. Some paint are softer than others.

[@Ichabod_Jericho]

Lookin BUILT Darren! Your workout regimen does you justice! Props on hard work

[@kristinabliss]

Forget the clay bar, your body is hot! 😝

[@paulcombes3782]

Having years of experience help to form an informed opinion . I totally agree with your argument . Be careful people not to cause a bigger problem . In some cases using a high quality polish (not a wax or ceramic sealant -thats the last in the process) and carefully hand polishing , you should get a great "damaged less" finish . Love your content mate . Top work .

[@huseyinalskan5539]

My car is outside. There a lot of trees. The car is covered with tree resin every 2 or 3 days. When i wash the car + iron remover + clay bar ( clay bar take only the resin ). The car looks clean. But one of my detailer friend said, if i use the clay bar too often it will damage the car paint VARNISH. So is it true or not?

[@johnbaker5331]

Have use clay bars for years... and I have black Lincoln Navigator....I found using the clay with spray on wax works very well... but without proper cleaning before using anything waxs..clay bar products will definitely scratch..but as far using compounds to clean your paint up in fact your put fine scratches in the paint then you apply wax the polish... but with any products you have to take care and use them correctly

[@BeBetterTomorrow321]

Do you have to clay bar before polishing or is a Rinse Snowfoam/ tfr Shampoo mitt wash enough?

[@guppyspop]

I just used Meguire's Clay Bar kit on a Black ML500 . . .and it came out AWESOME!!

[@euanscotland]

I'm the same man. Car looks great..

[@c00l0ne]

Yep! I used the same on my Infiniti , left it smooth like it’s a new paint job!👍🏽

[@heatfan1502]

Didnt leave any scratches or did u polish after?

[@guppyspop]

@@heatfan1502 you wax it afterwards. . .no scratches and looks and feels like new car again.

[@Jommybutler1234]

@@guppyspop Wax fills the light scratches.. Next time, before you wax, spray some alcohol on it and wipe off....you will see the actual status of the paint as a result of the clay bar.

[@thiantonio]

I wanted so badly to say "Darren you are wrong" but you are not.

[@robertsears5788]

Hey Darren, I really find your videos very informative. I would like to know if after you clay bar if you have to give the paint an alcohol wipe and if so the ratio of alcohol to water. Thank you so much for all of your time and expertise, greatly appreciated. Rob

[@autofetishdetail]

There will be many pseudo-experts that say you must or should. I disagree as it is simply a waste of time. With that said, I certainly would wipe up/off any liquid "mess" created by the claying process.

[@robertsears5788]

Thanks so much for taking the time to answer. Rob

[@RobertMoreno-ru1zf]

Do you have to clay bar and wax before you ceramic coat

[@philtymps]

Thanks you! I’m a newbie to using clay - actually I’ll be doing for the first time -and you’ve made my fears about it’s possible impacts more rational. I better understand the “process” and what to expect.

[@williamsmarr9500]

Just one rule.... never clay unless you intend to compound or at least polish afterwards. That will remove the marring. :-)

[@hb-ol9oc]

@@williamsmarr9500 My question is , if you don´t clay and only wax it regularly, I use Meguiars Ultimate Liquid Wax every 6 months , wihat happen to your car paint ? I mean what damage is greater , claying it or only waxing it ? Are the contaminats damage your paint more than the clay bar ?

[@williamsmarr9500]

@@hb-ol9oc The "damage" from a clay bar is not really damage; it's called marring and looks like a scuff mark. Won't hurt anything but you can see it, especially in sunlight. On the other hand, if you wax it without claying it first, you're grinding in dirt and other contaminants on the paint. Clay barring is easy and pretty fast. You can even do it while washing car, using soap as lubricant, AFTER cleaning car first with a proper wash mitt. So, to answer your question, waxing without claying is more damage than claying. Hope that answers your question.

[@hb-ol9oc]

@@williamsmarr9500 Yes, thanks a lot.

[@kennethrivera4418]

The red one is good ?? i need the name and how to use it for a job

[@pikappquan227]

Do I have to polish after using a clay bar on my car? Or can I get away with using P & S Bead Maker?

[@drewhil23]

I want to ceramic coat my car should i use a clay bar before using the ceramic coat?

[@zanaga1901]

Should you use clay bar after paint job yes or no.

[@aquarius8063]

So I have a couple of wash mitts. I use one for the body of the car and one for the wheels. My concern is that I have gotten them mixed up in the wash. Question is, if there were any iron deposits on the wash mitts after washing wheels, will those iron particle safely come off when I wash the mitts in the wash machine? If not, I don't want to risk using a contaminated mitt on the car paint and causing micro scratches over times.

[@wheretonow3106]

Buy another one. Or you can just use 000 steel wool.

[@BornAgainCynic0086]

A good guide to know if your car needs a clay bar... get a micro thin plastic bag from the fruiterers and open it up, put your hand in and GENTLY run your hand over an area, it will feel like the rocky mountains! Then do a clay bar in that area and feel the difference. You will be shocked.

[@rugby86]

You forgot one of your other great quotes, “have realistic expectations” 😏. Great content as always. Now this could be why TurtleWax haven’t released a product line of clay bar kits 🤪😂

[@joerodriguez6048]

What's the difference between clay bar, and poster tack clay?

[@valterb5330]

So my question is what would I do or use to decontaminate my new 2020 Grand Cherokee in Sting ray grey ? I would like to prep it for a ceramic protectant and make sure I give the new stuff a good clean base ... Thank You

[@utgolfnut]

I’ve got a new ride as well....would love an answer to your Question.

[@jeffbenedict8926]

Watch project farm on KZbin. He has a video n regards to the ceramic polishes... there he goes through the decontamination process

[@valterb5330]

Jeff Benedict thank you Jeff, I just watched and I have come to terms that I will use up my supply of McQuires products and then transition into some newer products ... There is a Chemical Guys retail store nearby and the manager there basically said the same thing instead of pushing me to replace and buy from him , which I appreciated... Have a good day and thanks for the info sir !! VMan

[@jesseseibold]

Interested to know how it turned out?Sting gray Gladiator here and after lightly claying a few areas, see some tiny scratches.

[@piotrkaczmarski519]

Vaulter check out ammo detailing guides, this guy is a perfectionist when it comes to detailing, clay bar is pretty much like doing surgery it’s last resort I would say and you said new grand Cherokee. If it’s new all your contaminates are probably just imbedded in the clear coat. Best of luck 🤞

[@richstewart1]

My detailer suggested clay bar. The result on my 2017 black Pius was flawless. He says that only needs to be done once a year or so. I have him wax two to three times a year. I also have a black Toyota Tacoma Pre-runner. Both are beautiful after he gets done with them. I'm sold on the clay bar.

[@LB83.]

Can you tell me what to use on a 2 year old black car light swirls ?

[@lockergr]

Honesty = Subscription. Thanks man. So if my car has sat out in a hot climate for 13 years and has only had rare occasional washes or had me hose it off, what is the best way to go about decontaminating my paint? I was planning on using a clay bar or clay towel and then using Griot's compound and Meguiar's polish. I've had no experience with any of this, and have a dark gray ride.

[@Royce_Wilms]

Coming across this a year later and you didn't even get a reply from anyone, which is abit rubbish, I'm intrigued on how you got on lol??

[@richlebarron8957]

That's a tough one, I would think it's past the point of clay bar at 13 yrs of heat. Might be better to clean and then have someone buff it out, then throw on a nice wax. IMO

[@emmanuelmacedo6798]

I'm about to do ppf is clay bar need it any help

[@Ojb_1959]

I heard regular plumbers putty works as well as clay bars. Also, technically aren’t you really only trying to improve the layers of clear coat on the surface and not the actual paint itself? Thoughts?

[@sdeulloa1336]

What type of wax should I use ? Can a spray wax work?

[@dontpraiseme]

should I clay the roof, hood and upper panels where its showing clear coat blistering? or sand first? i'm not repainting, just want to polish and seal.

[@jasongenn39]

One thing I do know if you polish it and then run your hand over it it will still have noticeable lumps and bumps for the contamination on the paint work. Where when you use the clay pads they eliminate that I guess that’s one advantage to the pad.

[@Jeff_Seely]

I agree with most of what you said. The polish process is trading larger, fewer, more visible scratches with finer, more, less visible scratches. But I am no fan of clay bar unless I have no other choice because they WILL scratch your clear coat and scratch it rather deeply in some cases. We are not getting very much clear coat from car manufacturers anymore. We have to start being conservative with our paint correction practices and, even better, being more vigilant about taking care of well conditioned paint.

[@jamieokane989]

Why is there less clear coat now; fashion or technical?

[@Jeff_Seely]

Environmental impact and cost. Automakers are lowering the amount of clear coat, year by year. It is wise to take care of your paint work on new vehicles and do whatever you can to prevent the necessity for polishing clear coat, as much as possible. Someone may have a different perspective to be that I'm open to hearing for sure though.

[@ceerock8088]

Fine grade clay towel what I use for deep cleaning

[@CamaroMan514]

I’m just wondering if it’s cool for me to use light clay on a brand new black car to remove the factory contaminants. I really don’t expect there to be much at all.

[@TheJambos1]

Is there a better option than clay to remove gritty contamination?

[@Subpac_ww2]

I would explore chemical options first. Carpro Trix, the multiple surface prep foams and degreasers like 3D Surface Prep or Griots foaming surface prep. I always try and exhaust ALL my chemical options first. You may be able to avoid claybaring as much or altogether, but they don't remove everything. But tar, bug guts, tree sap, all cam be removed by chemicals.

[@ronb9901]

How long or how many times can you use the same clay bar??

[@_Circus_Clapped_]

keep kneading after every panel, or until you drop it onto the floor, it's very sticky so a very slick chemical to use after the first wash to get rid of any loose dirt or grime that may get caught onto the clay in turn scratching it like this guy says it

[@hardleyvries2146]

Darren you said after claybar to follow up with wax, why do most professional detailers say to polish afterwards?

[@steadyeddie7453]

I am with you 100%. I have been debating this for years. It only makes sense that if the clay bar lifts an embedded particle from the paint, then you are dragging that particle back and forth across the paint surface until you fold it into the clay and expose a fresh clay surface. Another angle- Car product manufacturers sell us "special" wash mits or sponges that supposedly lift the loose particles of contamination from the paint and bury them deep into the wash mit. Why? So these particles dont scratch the paint. Many recommend a 2 bucket wash process. Why? Because your wash mit lifts the contaminant particles and holds them in the mit. So the mit is then dipped in 2nd bucket to clear it of the contaminants. It's the same principle for a clay bar. And if the clay did not scratch the finish then they wouldn't be recommending polishing afterwards.

[@RichardFallstich]

So in the "2 bucket" method; when rinsing the wash implement (mitt, sponge, microfiber pad, etc) what happens to the particles released in the 'clear' rinse water? Do the particles remain in suspension, only to RE-contaminate the mitt/pad? Do you avoid causing turbidity, if so - how? Some people use 2 buckets with those guard screens in the buckets. As to polishing after the 'controlled' scratching with the clay, the polish makes still smaller scratches. Body and paint work involves sanding or wet sanding with progressivity finer grit. I.e.: 1000 grit followed by 3000 etc. Same principle with clay then polish.

[@steadyeddie7453]

@@RichardFallstich The particles are generally heavy enough that they sink to the bottom. Of course nothing is perfect so there may be some floaters. But I never dip my wash brush toward the bottom of the bucket. Just enough to submerge it. Give it a few shakes and back out. I have the bucket guard but it is used to keep my wash brush off the bucket bottom when I am moving the bucket around, or relocating the water hose. Other than that the brush never dips down that far into ither bucket. As for turbidity, I actually pre-wash the vehicle by gently running one hand across the paint surface while the other hand is pointing a steady stream of water. Particles are instantly washed away and not ground in, and they dont remain on your clean hand. That alone removes most of the surface dirt. Then I go to the buckets. Both clay and polish will leave scratches. Theres a lot of variables with both. But clay-ing is most always followed by polishing, then a wax or sealcoat. Polishing can generally be followed by a sealant or wax.

[@Chesterman2023]

I'm a complete amateur but keen on learning best methods to clean my pride and joy (BLACK Audi) Brother in Law recommends mid range clay bar and quality lubricant (AutoGlym Detailer spray)...Ok before I start what are your thoughts on alternatives such as putty which I notice contains linseed oil, is this a good idea or complete NoNo?

[@Cindy-pv9fx]

We had (two) new 1 year old white vehicles professionally clay barred to remove white boat paint overspray. Now both vehicles are scratched and have swirls. Easily seen on the white paint when the sun is shining on them. -- Now to correct this problem (caused by the abrasive clay bar process) I'm assuming that the vehicles need to be washed, some kind of abrasive polishing steps done, then some kind of a sealant protection applied? -- Can you tell me if this is the correct way to now (restore) the vehicles after the abrasive processes? -- I'm guessing that after using the abrasive clay bar process and then the abrasive polishing process that this has compromised the clearcoat which means the clearcoat won't do its job to protect the vehicles for as many years as it would have had the abrasive clay bar process not been done on them. I understand there's another way to remove boat paint overspray using a sanding process which I'm told would have been a better way to go. -- I've read about having a ceramic coating put on for the sealer. What's your opinion on using that to prolong the life of the clearcoat now that its been compromised? -- I'm (not looking for an easy fix or a way to cover up the problem) caused by the clay bar process. What I'm looking for is a way to restore the vehicles back to what they were before the overspray and the clay bar damage. Thank you very much for any help with this. Cindy

[@mattsmith9367]

I'm not an expert, but from my understanding you'll need to polish the car with an appropriate strength polish- I'm not sure of the exact word but the term for sandpaper is grit and that's the closest thing that I know of. Menzerna is a really good brand, they have three series, 1,000, 2,000, and 3,000 the lower the number the higher the cutting power so you'll have to determine how deep the scratches are first- you'll probably need to start at 1,000 or 2,000 because the 3,000 series has very little cutting power if used properly. Most detailers use an orbital buffer but this can potentially make the situation even worse, it's easier to mess up paint with a buffer than clay because it's electric powered and spins very rapidly so it can pick up small contaminants very quickly, or just the friction with the polish alone can leave circular marks on the car. The idea is to start out at the lower number before moving on to the next series- so if you use 1,000 then you have to use 2,000 and then 3,000 or if you just use 3,000 then that's all you need.

[@rickbat6201]

A whole lot of words and I am not sure the verdict. If it is don't use a clay bar then what is the best choice to clean paint?

[@chatch15117]

Polish with a compound, prep the paint with IPA and put on wax or coating. Not good to clay without polishing after. If you keep up on it, you won't have to compound every time, usually 1 pass with polish and 1 pass with primer is fine. Then you don't need to worry about clear coat thickness

[@jstmag]

Dude, finally!! Been looking for this information forever. I appreciate your work and info.

[@autofetishdetail]

Glad to help!

[@MrTacoma]

what if i work in tiny 5mm by 5mm areas at a time ......lather clay lather and wax by finger tip.....?

[@grandmastert01]

Hi Darren can I just use dawn soap mixed with water as a clay lube ?

[@lSh0cKl]

Dawn soap is abrasive, thatd be a terrible idea? So.. did you do it? 🤣

[@MrTacoma]

that dish soap will strip your car of all wax.... so if you want to strip the wax .........

[@3100fps]

Bought a brand new car this year. After looking at some ceramic coatings they all insisted on claying the car first saying there were contaminates in the paint. Having clayed a car years ago I thought they were nuts. I had a brand new car with not one swirl mark or scratch on it. No way was I going to risk screwing up the paint or reducing the thickness of the clear coat on a brand new car. I ceramic coated it with just a good wash and it came out fine. I continue to maintain it with liquid spray ceramic coatings as drying aids and the car looks great and still not one swirl mark or scratch after 8 months. I stopped listening to experts and using common sense years ago. Is it possible that my car might look a tad better if I followed instructions, possibly but not worth the risk.

[@RichardFallstich]

What am I missing regarding the statement about "metal in composition?" Definition of composition metal: a cast copper alloy containing usually more than 80 percent copper together with tin, lead, and zinc." Those elements: (copper tin lead zinc) are typically not ferrous. Ferrous metal is usually iron, and all steel alloys may use iron blended with small amounts of elements such as carbon, chromium, nickel, manganese, manganese, or various others. [I had classes in metallurgy/material sciences.] How does this composition (whatever it is) affect the use of the clay bars for surface decontamination?

[@steadyeddie7453]

Don't overanalyze it with percentages of this or that. I believe he was stating that one type of contamination is "composed" of metal. And then he immediately referred to brake dust as an example, which is mostly ferrous in composition. So to answer your question, a clay bar will cause more scratching when it picks up brake dust versus picking up pollen or bird droppings.

[@RichardFallstich]

@@steadyeddie7453 Don't overanalyze it?!?!? This guy presents an 11+ minute diatribe with a lot of vague terminology and misinformation. THAT'S overanalyzing. He claims to be a "professional detailer." What exactly is that? He does not seem to know the trade of auto painting.

[@kimdavis5631]

Best voice of reason in the industry.

[@johnspinks3656]

perhaps the wording should be, it's not the Clay Bar scratching our Duco but it is the debris that the Bar picks-up that does the scratches. (& I've never used a clay bar) just surmising.

[@1980sSinaloense]

Its scratches it right ? Isn’t that why people only clay bar their car if they’re going to follow up with a polish and wax ?

[@chrisf8645]

Thanks for the education! Appreciate your candor and telling as it is.....

[@robl1967]

So the clay bar doesn’t scratch it only the particles you pick up do? That’s the exact same as a microfibre towel or a sponge or a wash mit, if you use it properly it won’t do any damage

[@Kulio_ib3wc]

Finally someone that knows and tells the truth. I have been doing body/ paint work since the 70's. Your video is right on the mark.

[@caleb2242]

Can it be a high earning career for someone in mid 30s. I paid $725 for a “detail” with clay bar. I’m thinking I should be the one charging $725.

[@mannycontreras6171]

Great info. Will you clay every car you wash/detail?

[@autofetishdetail]

I always clay as needed. I just accept the trade-off's and adjust based on the situation eg: who's car, what color, etc.

[@MrGflan]

@@autofetishdetail thanks for the video. I’m purchasing a 2011 silver Jeep Wrangler. It has good paint that I can tell. I have iron x, and a clay bar from a year or so ago. Do you recommend decontamination or could I get away with a strip wash, and polish and wax. I admit I’m being a little lazy here, but I’m hearing some say clay bar isn’t really necessary. Also, what are your thoughts on auto scrub and Nano skin instead of clay? Thanks

[@journeytohealingwithb7470]

I had to polish a black dodge challenger hellcat that was delivered right from the factory. It was delivered all scratched up I was still fairly new to polishing. So tall about anxiety lol.

[@slycat67]

Clay is gonna scratch my car. Got it.

[@charlesbarker8424]

Back and forth minor scratches are better than trapping them in applicator and putting circular scratches on entire car

[@FJB8646]

I clay barred my car and waxed afterwards and it looks awesome. I was very careful to use plenty of lube so I don’t think polishing was needed.

[@tiboruray5320]

Dont do it again. Just think mate. What the claybar does? It moves out the grits that stucked into the paint. Mostly iron piece that scratches the paint further as you go along. The removed grits rolling between the claybar and the paint like you a piece of sand. Wash your car, dry it. Spray it with iron remover, help to sitribute it evenly with a big soft paintbrush. Then rinse it, remove the tar and polish it. Clay bar is BS.

[@davidrankine4662]

Totally agree. Just keeping your paint wet will alloy your clay bar to glide. Feeling resistance is very bad, not gliding. Resistance will scratch your paint. A very little detergent may help to remove grease. You will need to polish for a showroom finish

[@hyperionone4208]

Before using clay, use a Decon spray to dissolve metals and brake dust from paintwork. Rinse. Now use tar/bug remover followed by a snow foam contactless wash. Follow with contact wash using Decon shampoo and 2 bucket method. Now use clay bar. There is nothing left on the car to embed into the clay bar, so the clay bar leaves no scratches. It does, however, prepare the paint for LSP. Rinse. Dry. Apply LSP. Sorted.

[@Jommybutler1234]

Incorrect

[@zdcyclops1lickley190]

It all depends on what the clay bar is made of. If it has abrasive in the clay it can mark the paint, if the clay picks up contaminants or dirt the dirt can mark the paint. Anything can mark your paint if there is dirt on the paint.

[@billybass4189]

Exactly my feeling, if the clay is loosening micro debris ie: tar spots and sliding that debris across the surface it's gonna scratch. I guess it's how well we polish out those after that really matters.

[@doprdl6208]

I always use a spray wax with clay it’s what most manufacturers state it doesn’t scratch as bad as most polishes or microfiber clothes. Even checked with microscope on my own cars and customers cars if surface prep isn’t done right I could see you’re point but through extreme testing it’s just as bad for you’re paint as most other products

[@Velo1010]

That is an excellent idea. I thought about using some good car wash soap mixed with water in a spray bottle.

[@ayeb350]

@@Velo1010 this works great and I’m about to do it tomorrow on my Mercedes’ e350 2008. The setup will be a normal contact wash and using the same car soap( chemicals guys pink) in a 8 water to 1 soap ratio in a spray bottle as a “clay lube“ then finally going to hand compound and polish it using meguiars ultimate compound and polish !:)

[@gunqueen501]

So what's the best way to remove Iron spots on white car

[@lukakovacevic6771]

(im from Europe) we want to see that clay bar which is around 20 dollars vs 2dollar clay is more expensive more better???

[@naamangeist7843]

Will claybar remove leaf etched imprints, bird poop marks, etc. from the paint?

[@lockergr]

Great question! Most of the detailing channels I watch are detailing pristine cars to begin with. How about a messed up ride for once!

[@mattsmith9367]

I'm no expert but my understanding is that sap and bird poop can permanently damage paint especially if the vehicle isn't sealed or waxed, clay bars can diminish their appearance but depending on how bad the damage is to begin with they may not be completely removed. I'm not sure about leaf etching but I think they're less serious issues so clay would probably diminish them even better or remove them completely.

[@ReverseProof]

Do not skip the clay bar. It removes 99% of contaminants. If you skip this process where do you think all those contaminants end up? You got it, right under your polisher and into your compound. Have fun with that! I noticed he failed to point this out. Not honest at all.

[@paulafinney7664]

If you don’t use clay to decontaminate your car, then what’s the next best thing before the polish?

[@autofetishdetail]

I don't think there would be a next step. You would simply have to accept that you are polishing over bonded contaminants.

[@josequiroz4605]

@@autofetishdetail very true you will be polishing over contaminants therefore scratching the clearcoat as you polish.

[@paulafinney7664]

Auto Fetish Detail Thank you!

[@owensteele1274]

@@autofetishdetail Don't go any further with the bodywork. Any of the contaminants could release from the surface and you will introduce scratches as the contaminant is being moved around across the clearcoat.

[@rodrigotruzzi8983]

There's some Detailers in Brazil selling a expensive wash with decontamination, I never understood that because yes, by clayin the paint I'm removing dirt particals attached to the clear coat and yes, I'm causing scratches too. If I didn't sell my paint correction package why in hell would I do that with my costumers car?? Considering cars not well taking cared for by their owners, if I don't clay I'll not get that smooth surface, and definitely part of this dirty it's gonna come to my pad. Am I right? Daren what's you're thoughts about this practice? As lubricant I use water and a few drops of detergent, it works just fine and In my case it's written on the label, soooo....

[@josequiroz4605]

Well theres a chemical decontamination, but that alone will not get 100% of the contaminants off that clearcoat. And if you want a paint sealant to last it's full potential tial then you have to decontaminate the clearcoat before you apply that wax or sealant.

[@Businessaccount2008]

Don't let this guy Fear you into not doing it first time user here and it came out awesome twenty fourteen Camaro SS. Watch a bunch of videos And be gentle with it

[@markt9438]

Clay bar is well worth as not to use harsh chemicals ! Then just 2 step polish and finish with sealer ! of your choice !!!

[@olD_Eazy681]

I’m in a motorcycle club. We had church last night and having a bad storm. I went out clayed everyone’s windshields using the rain for lube. Every single one of them said that they have never had such great visibility

[@brucel7794]

I seen a video where the guy said he wasn't a professional detailer. But he found that "plumbers Putty" worked just as good as a clay bar. Wondering what your thoughts would be on this. Have you ever heard of using it. He said it worked just as good and was cheaper.

[@billybass4189]

I was thinking blu tack

[@patricktuggles4815]

Optimum Clay/Towel or Mitt w/Car Wax Lube I haven't really seen any marring with it. Been using it for months

[@josequiroz4605]

Do a test panel. Paint correct it to the point it has no scratches, leave it out in the open elements, than with time do a clay bar and see for yourself then if it scratches or not. You will see micro marring to the point that only if you focused real good and know wat your looking for. It's not gona scratch like if you were taking a piece of 600grit sand paper. But it will have micro marring.

[@susanrodesky9872]

So glad I came across your video! As an amateur detailer, but a real fuss budget, I thought using a traditional "light" clay bar on my 2019 vehicle was the smart thing to do. You are right -- it will scratch! So now, prior to re-applying its biannual application of ceramic coating, I try to DECONTAMINATE, DECONTAMINATE, DECONTAMINATE as much as possible prior to the claying process. After doing the wheels, I foam up the entire vehicle with a cleansing car shampoo & power rinse. Next comes a decontaminate spray all over, foam up & power spray off again. Then comes the CLAY BLOCK with either a lubricant or a spray mixture of Chemical Guys Mr. Pink. I take a lot of time with the BLOCK and so small sections at a time because I am constantly rinsing it off throughout the process (a money saver versus throwing away pieces of clay bars). Finishing off with a 2-bucket manual wash and power rinse. Then it's ready for a new ceramic coat. Whew... lot of steps for this biannual process but the paint finish is as smooth as a baby's bottom afterwards and there are no longer any additional scratches. Thankfully, regular washings are much quicker and easier thanks to the ceramic coating. Any suggestions or comments for this newbie from experienced detailers about my process?

[@Keanjo41]

What specifically do you use to decontaminate before claying?

[@Underp4ntz_Gaming_Channel]

I have a better tip, do not clay ur car... like someone is going to look so close at the paint anyways...

[@SussNit]

It can definately mark your paint, but I've also clayed cars with no markings created. The key is light pressure and continual remolding on the clay, I've seen those clay towels they do the most damage out of any clay steer clear of those.

[@williamsmarr9500]

Not trying to argue but that's not quite accurate on clay towels. It's generally recognized by those of us who do this for $ that clay alternatives or just as good as clay. They also can be significantly faster. The BIG advantage is if you drop a clay bar it CAN NOT be used any longer. Mitts and towels, rinse off and you're ready to go. Also, never clay unless you're going to compound or polish afterwards. That will remove any marring caused by claying. Make sure when you clay that you use a good clay lube. Also the grade of clay is important. Fine can be used in many cases; medium grade is more "powerful" but marrs more.

[@diegoamestica4038]

I should´ve watched your video before using the claybar on my mini cooper. However, you're right. Got some scratches...very small and I got angry at first...but paint got softer that a nun´s butt...and now I have to get rid off the marring...Anyways...ups and downs with the bar.

[@lilred4life08]

Does it create deep scratches

[@GlassWolfLH]

To me, it's all about leveling the surface of the clear coat. The clay scratches contaminants off of the clear, which is immediately followed by cutting compound, then polish to further and further refine and level the surface, removing imperfections as you go, until you are finally ready for a protective layer over top, like a wax, graphene, or ceramic. In this case, the "scratches" are typically irrelavant. They're going to be removed, or reduced with each step after the clay, anyway.

[@davidgarren6567]

21 years now I been telling my customers claying do some scratching and I polish the car after and remove the scratches before waxing. It's all good for me. Just some extra work I do.

[@truthmatters2020]

Yes, you are absolutely right, clay bar scratches the paint, but it is a normal part of the detailing process as long as the car needs it.