Waxing the Yaris?

[YotaYarisUSA]

My new yaris will be here next week,I'm already to go and buy new products to protect her. What should I get,what is the best? I just saw something on QVC called final detail and it looks like great stuff! You can use it on the whole outside of the car even the plastic,windows,trimming etc and it want make that white flaking mess. It should them putting it on a car and then showing a penny slide down it,then they showed how it sheeted off water etc,I know that must waxes will do that when applied right. But,this stuff looks easier to put on that that paste wax stuff. Should I order this stuff or should I just get me some the Meguiar's NXT Generation Tech Wax which is supose to last longer than regular wax and protect the paint longer that just plain wax? But I don't what do you guys use on your Yaris?

Thanks in advance

YotaYarisUSA

[dandj]

I bought some ultra polish http://www.ultrapolish.com/Catalog.asp glare aircraft polish. I used it on my Yaris and I think impressive results, After I did both applications I RAN INTO A LOT OF BUGS (one every 1/2 to 1/4 inch on the bumper) after a rain this morning the bugs were all gone but for two. It is suppose to last 5 years. (time will tell) as for chorme I did it to my bike and can you say mirror. It was fabulous. I still want to get some plastic covering for the front end. As for now ,so far so good!

[YotaYarisUSA]

Thanks,man that sounds like some good stuff! Pricey,but if its as good as they say it is then,its worth it!


YotaYarisUSA

[ricko]

My dealer said wax (they suggested Turtle), twice a year. I listened to their advice, but wax can be a pain.

[bikergal]

Meguiars Gold is what I use on my truck. Works great! Only $10 bucks a bottle at Walmart :biggrin:

Better than turtle wax in my opinion..... Meguiars comes in a bottle where you squeeze the wax out onto the pad so it isn't that paste stuff :thumbsup:

[C2AUTOSPL]

Just get the meguiars off-the-shelve 1-2-3 step waxing. HOw often you wax your car depends on how often your car is exposed to the elements(outside, garage, under a tree, etc).

Try running your hand on the paint after you washed it. If its not smooth, speciall if feels a bit sandy, wax your car.....clay bar it first though.

[w1ngzer0]

Wait a month after you get the car. The paint could be still settling. Waxing it. Well there are those 1 year wax products that make your car look like a mirror :)

[fearturtle44]

Only use a very good NON-paste wax and definitely wax OUT of sunlight.

Kevin

[Island Boy]

Only use a very good NON-paste wax and definitely wax OUT of sunlight.

Kevin

"ICE" by Turtle Wax is the best and easiest stuff I have used in years. no residue at all. Just remember, on a car with clearcoat, you are not waxing the paint, you are waxing the clearcoat, so if you wax toooo much and/or toooo hard, you will eventually ware throught the clearcoat, and then the paint will have no protection from the elaments.:eek:

[Island Boy]

Just get the meguiars off-the-shelve 1-2-3 step waxing. HOw often you wax your car depends on how often your car is exposed to the elements(outside, garage, under a tree, etc).

Try running your hand on the paint after you washed it. If its not smooth, speciall if feels a bit sandy, wax your car.....clay bar it first though.

Clay bar on a clearcoat paint finish? :eek: are you serious?

[bigsky2]

I believe Maguiar's clay bar is ok to use on a clearcoat paint finish. It is stated as being clear coat safe.

For waxing, I'm going to use Maguiar's Gold Class LIQUID Wax. It has been proven to be as effective as the paste. I like the idea that it's easy to apply, hence allowing you get a nice thin coat on it, and just as easy to remove.

I've a question though... I had a conversation with someone who is an auto detailer and he explained that a protecting the car is a 5-step process.

1) Wash - get rid of dust and dirt
2) Clean - get rid of scratches and other minor defects
3) Polish - brings out the shine in the paint, protects the shine
4) Wax - protects the paint from the environment
5) Maintain - all of the above

My question is, Is POLISHING necessary for a new car?

[DARK505]

I highly suggest Zanio! It works wonders! Ill see if i can get pics of my buddies Mazdaspeed that he used it on... after he had layered it several times it looked like a mirror NO JOKE!
I will be telling the dealer NOT to wax, wash or touch the exterior of my yaris (whenever it happens) and i will be applying Zanio the first day i get it.
http://www.zainostore.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc

Its a bit pricey but SO worth it.
When i get pics you will understand.

[why?]

From what I understand you should definately not polish it the first day. I guess that the paint could possibly take some time to fully cure, ad I guess polishing uncured paint is bad.

[Master2192]

I wouldn't start claybaring fresh paint either, claybar is an abrasive and using it too much can go through the clear coat and start removing paint. Regular waxing will really protect the paint very well, I wax my g/fs WRX ever 3 months as it rains alot here in washington and I'd like to keep it looking good.

Currently using Meguirs Gold Class Liquid wax and loving it.

[bigsky2]

Excellent advice RE: Polishing + Clay Bar

I guess for a car that's very new, eg. less than 3 months, polishing and using a clay bar to remove contaminants is not necessary and can hinder the paint as some of you have said.

I guess I'll start with a thorough car wash and appropriately hand dry it afterwards.

Then I'll wax it using a 10" orbital :biggrin: Yes I'm lazy! But there will still be some hand waxing for those hard to reach places.

[DARK505]

From what I understand you should definately not polish it the first day. I guess that the paint could possibly take some time to fully cure, ad I guess polishing uncured paint is bad.

The paint should have had time to cure in the time it takes to get from japan to the US to me. I may have misstated how quick i would Zanio my car, but i will be doing it very soon after i get it. I will let the pics talk for me.

Then I'll wax it using a 10" orbital Yes I'm lazy! But there will still be some hand waxing for those hard to reach places.
That can damage the clear coat due to the high speed/pressure of the orbital (swirls/rubbing away the clear coat). I hope you dont plan on Dawn washing it...

[bigsky2]

That can damage the clear coat due to the high speed/pressure of the orbital (swirls/rubbing away the clear coat). I hope you dont plan on Dawn washing it...

RE: Orbital damaging Clear Coat - That is a popular misconception!

I don't understand your statement above, because an orbital polisher (or rotary polisher), when used properly and with a quality wax compound, is designed to protect the clear coat and paint, thereby preventing the swirl effect to some degree.

If the polisher is a random-orbit polisher, the pad does not actually spin in a direct circular motion against the surface. Rather, it uses a mechanism that causes the pad to both rotate in a circle and at the same time the pad oscillates in an eccentric pattern inside this larger, main rotating pattern or action of the machine. Because it jiggles and oscillates it creates a buffering effect that does not create excessive amounts of heat and does not eat away at the clear coat. Some even have clutches that slow the operation speed if you apply too much pressure.

On the other hand, if you were to use a rotary polisher and you are inexperienced, then you might damage the clearcoat if you are not vigilant with the amount of pressure applied to the surface and also the speed at which it is operating.

Most random-orbital polishers you see for under $75 dollars at the hardware store are made solely for consumer and novice detailing usage. There is little risk to the car's finish because the polisher is designed for light to moderate usage.

No, I will not be using Dawn to wash the vehicle. It will be Meguiar's Gold Class Shampoo :respekt:

[ricko]

I have to admit despite my earlier whine about waxing with Turtle Wax (dealer's recommendation), it has worked out well. The car buffs up nicely after a wash, and the surface seems to repel dust and dirt well. Now if I could only do something about the seagulls ..........................:thumbdown:

[DARK505]

On the other hand, if you were to use a rotary polisher and you are inexperienced, then you might damage the clearcoat if you are not vigilant with the amount of pressure applied to the surface and also the speed at which it is operating.

Well i guess i can see where i am mistaken. bigsky2, thank you for the well explained post and not insulting me for being mistaken (ive seen it happen many times on other forums).

It will be Meguiar's Gold Class Shampoo
Im not familiar with that one, but i will look into it. I still will most likely use Zanio tho, because of the great jobs ive seen after using it.
Here are a couple pics of my buddys MSP after being Zanio'd:
http://www.msprotege.com/members/xmod505/zainoafter2.jpg
http://www.msprotege.com/members/xmod505/zainoafter3.jpg
http://www.msprotege.com/members/xmod505/zainoafter4.jpg


Now if I could only do something about the seagulls ..........................:thumbdown:

Covered parking...?

[ricko]

Covered parking (a garage) means a huge jump in housing costs here in resort-land. I was thinking more along the lines of a pet owl. :laugh:

[DARK505]

HAHA, owls would be a perfect addition to ward off the seagull prob... but what to do about the owl droppings... hmm maybe an ocelot would help with the owl prob
:laughabove:

[bigsky2]

DARK505:

No problem! I once was also skeptical of polishers and the potential damage it could inflict on paint. I saw first hand what a rotary polisher and orbital polisher could do if used properly and the results were amazing.

I also saw the possible damage you can cause to the paint by using a rotary polisher without any experience.

It's best to stick within one "family" of detailing products because each brand has its own chemical formulas that tested across several applications. That's why you see a lot of detailers and detailing products suggesting that you use Product X, then Product Y, then Product Z from Manufacturer ABC.

Obviously it's not set in stone, because I mix different brands depending on the application.

For something mild like shampoo for the car, I think we can use any brand that's available to us at a good price.

[bigsky2]

Update

I applied the the wax (Meguiar's Gold Class Liquid Wax, consumer line) to my Yaris with a 10" random orbital polisher last weekend.

Results?
VERY BEAUTIFUL.

Meguiar's Gold Class wax applied very easily using the polisher and also by hand, and it dried in about 10 minutes. I changed bonnets and the removal/buffing of the wax was extremely easy (and pleasing). The wax came off very easily and left no streaks at all. It revealed a highly glossy and polished shine and it felt so smooth to the touch. I threw a clean towel on the car and it slipped off!

I didn't get a chance to take pictures of the process because I had my hands tied. :iono:

My recommendations for waxing, some based on common suggestions:

- Do it in an enclosed environment so as to prevent any dust and debris settling on the coat of wax as you are applying it (ie. Underground parking area, garage, somewhere covered)
- Do not apply wax in a hot or wet environment, avoid direct sunlight
- Make sure your car is washed, cleaned, and dried
---> Washed: All dirt and debris is removed via car wash/shampoo and water
---> Cleaned: All contaminants, oxidation, and other surface irritants removed (ie. use a clay bar or other detailer products to get rid of these things)
---> Dried: Dry it with a lint free towel or cloth (terry or microfibre)

- Give yourself plenty of time to do all of the above!
- Use an orbital or PC if you can, it will make your job a lot easier
- Hand apply/remove wax in areas the machine polisher cannot reach
- Allow the wax to dry to a haze, and perform a swipe test to determine if it's ready to remove
---> Swipe Test: Take a clean finger, and swipe it across the surface of the car. If your finger leaves residue or streaks, then the wax is not ready to be removed. If the surface is clean after you swiped it, then it's ready to be removed.

In terms of the types of bonnets to use, I used the following:

- Applying wax: Vinyl-lined wax applicator (the backside of the bonnet is vinyl lined so that the wax does not soak through the bonnet, thus allowing the bonnet to apply wax appropriately to the surface of the car)
- Removing wax/Buffing: Foam wax remove bonnet**

** You can also use a terry cloth or microfibre polishing bonnet to remove wax/buff, but a foam remover works just as well

For those spots you had to do by hand, remove the wax using a terry or microfibre cloth.

And finally.. How to test if your car needs to be waxed?

The Squeak Test!
---> On a clean and dry surface, take a clean towel and ball it up so that you can put your fist around the towel and rub it firmly along the surface of the car in a circular motion. If you hear the towel squeaking against the surface AND OR if there is any friction as you move the towel, then that means there is no wax on the surface. Since wax increases slip and decreases friction, the presence of friction indicates that there is little or no wax on the surface.

Hope this helps anyone who hasn't waxed a car before, as this was my first time and I received lots of help from experienced friends and the detailing gurus at Meguiar's online.

[ricko]

I'd be careful about choosing any underground parking as a place to wax. Most of the ones I've experienced have had a higher dust content in the air, than outdoors. Unless of course, you live near a construction site.

[bigsky2]

I'd be careful about choosing any underground parking as a place to wax. Most of the ones I've experienced have had a higher dust content in the air, than outdoors. Unless of course, you live near a construction site.

The underground parking lot I used to do all the work was very clean and I didnt notice a whole lot of dust; the building is 3 months old as it just finished completion.

It also depends on the human/auto traffic through the particular parking lot, as the one I used was a two floors down and there were not that many cars or people walking/passing by to kick up the dust that was there.

[505zoom]

Good info here fellas... figured I'd say howdy to you toyota folks and give a couple of my reccomendations on this one.

First, only polish a new car if there is good reason. If there are any swirls from the original dealership cleanup (mine had minor swirling on the roof and hood), I reccomend a VERY mild polish/compound like PoorBoy's SSR1. To prep the paint, Dawn dish soap is aggresive enough to strip most contaminates (and any crap that the dealer might have put on there), without harming the clear. A clay bar will take care of anything else that the dawn leaves behind, but with new paint you shouldn't even need to do much besides hit isolated areas.

Only use the dawn wash if you want to strip old waxes, polishes, or contaminates. DO NOT use dawn after you have your desired wax on the paint. Meguiars gold class was mentioned before and it is a good soap. Their NXT stuff is good too. Nothing makes the car SMELL better than Zaino wash though.:wink:

Always remember, polishing and waxing your car even with the best products is worthless if you don't prep the paint well. You want it to be as clean and spot free as possible before you seal it up.

Circular *rotary* (i.e. cheap pepboys or autozone machine) buffing is bad on fresh paint... most cars have ample curing time when they come from Japan, but it is a good rule of thumb to wait a month from the time the car was sprayed before using anything but hand power. Check the manufacture date on the sticker (drivers door frame) if you want to be sure.

Porter Cable is by far the best bang for the buck when it comes to GOOD machines at a reasonable cost. Lowes has the PC7424 for between 100-109 dollars, and you can find them online for about the same price after shipping. The key is to use high quality pads, and I highly suggest checking out http://www.exceldetail.com for the best pads and backing plates.

Zaino Bros is a synthetic, non traditional style formula, and it absolutely destroys every other product I have ever tried. Klasse All-In-One, FourStar Ultimate Paint Protection and Wolfgang Deep Gloss Sealant is highly reccomended by my detailing guru and is the only other combo I would try at this point.

Anyways, hope this helps some of you, and good luck keeping your new toys fresh and shiney.:smile: The folks over at www.autopia.org have more good info about the different products and techniques than anyone else on the web, so check them out if you are serious about taking care of your car.

[505zoom]

^

Beautiful color there.

[YotaYarisUSA]

I just got some the new turtle wax Ice stuff,it seems like pretty awesome stuff! The guys at Advanced Auto parts,say its been selling like crazy,and that ppl are raving about how great it works. Its suppose to,a quick and easier way to polish wax your car,no white junk and you can put on metal, plastic,etc and you can use it in the sun,when the car is hot and it works just as good,so says the bottle.Plus,it comes with a mircofiber towel and a polish applicator.

My dealer called and my car is here,and I pick her up tommorrow:) I looked on the turtle wax website,and it says that you should check the date of when the car was made,and if its 30 days past that,you are safe to wax and polish the car. I'm thinking that its been more than 30days, they made it in japan and sent over on the boat, I hope so want to keep this little ride looking sweet!


Later,guys I will post pictures just as soon as I ICE MY Yaris!

Anyone else, use ICE?


:burnrubber:

YotaYarisUSA

[mikeukrainetz]

I havent yet seen anyone mention Mothers. I have used most of Mothers products for years with incredible results but with incredible amounts of elbow grease. This is where everyone turns to the spray on, no touch, instant synthetic formulas to get out of doing some work. I wont lie, it'll take one long afternoon to polish up a ride but believe me it'll shine.

[505zoom]

...I'm thinking that its been more than 30days, they made it in japan and sent over on the boat...

Check the sticker and make sure... better safe than sorry.

I have only heard good things about turtle wax ice, it seems kind of like zaino since it leaves no white residue on plastics and will make just about any material shine. I haven't tried ice yet though, so I don't know how it truely compares.

I havent yet seen anyone mention Mothers. I have used most of Mothers products for years with incredible results but with incredible amounts of elbow grease. This is where everyone turns to the spray on, no touch, instant synthetic formulas to get out of doing some work. I wont lie, it'll take one long afternoon to polish up a ride but believe me it'll shine.

I used Mother's and Meguiar's stuff for years on other cars, they never seemed to last very long, and adding more than a couple coats was a waste of time because the shine wouldn't get any better. You should really try a synthetic (not all are spray-on) just once if you still take the time to use a traditional wax properly. With the ZFX accelerator in the Zaino kits, you can layer up to 3 coats in one day and get crazy results. It still takes all day to do it right, but if you have good paint and proper setup, the difference compared to traditional is night and day. If you switch to any of the higher end synthetics you can keep making it shine more with every coat. Your arm and shoulder will thank you too, haha.

Here is my car with a bare clean (dawn+clay) surface:

http://www.msprotege.com/members/505zoom/zainoclose1.jpg

And here is the same shot, same day, after only 2 coats:

http://www.msprotege.com/members/505zoom/zainoclose4.jpg

3 coats:

http://www.msprotege.com/members/505zoom/Nov30pics6.jpg

Here is 12 coats on my engine cover:

http://www.msprotege.com/members/505zoom/Nov30pics1.jpg

Jetta with 20 coats... yes, 20:

http://www.msprotege.com/members/119/20coatJetta.jpg

:drool:

[DARK505]

Damn rich you never showed me that jetta pic before... That thing looks like he chromed his car with black chrome or something... :iono:
I saw your MSP before you Zanio'd it and after you put the, what, 9 or 10 coats on? Woah that makes a world of difference!! You should get another 10 on her so your MSP can bling like that Jetta! lol

By the way, the paint on 505zoom's MSP is the exact same or at very minimum close to identical to the Black sand pearl for the yaris. He was with me when i went in to the dealership to put my down payment in and saw a black sand pearl yaris sedan in the lot.

[silverRS]

the ice is good I bought some, real nice shine

[wwwh355]

HAHA, owls would be a perfect addition to ward off the seagull prob... but what to do about the owl droppings... hmm maybe an ocelot would help with the owl prob
:laughabove:

I guess, SAM will help.

[Yaris Dick]

Excuse me... but I have to laugh. I must. Sorry.

I'm laughing because I can remember the days when I was so anal about my cars that I used to set alarms to remind me to wash and wax them on the weekends. In the early 80's I used to wash my cars twice a week and wax them once a month... religiously.

Then the first kid was born. Then I washed them every other week and waxed them every 3 months.

Then the second kid was born. Then I washed them when I had enough energy. I paid some dude to wax them about once a year.

Then I turned 30. Then I laughed at my younger neighbors who didn't have kids and had too much time on their hands to be able to wash their cars once a week or more. I sort of envied them... well... not really.

Then I turned 40. My cars ocassionally see an automated brushless carwash about twice a year... if they're lucky. In between washes, I admire how clean they can become with a ride through a puddle or a drive through a seasonal downpour. The really funny thing is: I STILL get top dollar for my trades. I pay some dude to wash and wax them right before I sell them. Even after YEARS of neglect, the finish buffs out to perfection. It gives me a hard-on to think how much time and money I've saved by NOT being so anal about how my car looks.

Word.

[IsLNdbOi]

RainX on my windows (exterior only), TW ICE on the exterior metal parts, and Meguiar's Quick Interior Detailer for all the plastic / vinyl parts inside and out.

[tomjasz]

Excuse me... but I have to laugh. I must. Sorry.



Then I turned 40. My cars ocassionally see an automated brushless carwash about twice a year... if they're lucky. In between washes, I admire how clean they can become with a ride through a puddle or a drive through a seasonal downpour. The really funny thing is: I STILL get top dollar for my trades. I pay some dude to wash and wax them right before I sell them. Even after YEARS of neglect, the finish buffs out to perfection. It gives me a hard-on to think how much time and money I've saved by NOT being so anal about how my car looks.

Word.


Very funny stuff! I'm chided at work and accused of selling my vehicles when it's time to wash and wax. I do give it 2 hours a month and am usually relieved once i've gotten the first ding.....it's just an f-ing car. (cheapest Toyota I could buy)
:drinking:

[TrancosRt]

I'm sorry, but I like to keep ALL my cars as clean and nice looking as possible. What's the point of keeping insanely dirty for no good reason other than being cheap/lazy? I like riding on a clean, good looking car, plain and simply said.

To each his/her own I guess...

[tomjasz]

I'm sorry, but I like to keep ALL my cars as clean and nice looking as possible. What's the point of keeping insanely dirty for no good reason other than being cheap/lazy? I like riding on a clean, good looking car, plain and simply said.

To each his/her own I guess...



2 hours a month is NOT "insanely dirty", it's enough time to keep the inside vaccuumed and the outside hosed off. Those $30 car washes and 3 hour Saturdays have been used to pump up a 401K. I'm retiring at 55 with a not so shiny car:thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

[fearturtle44]

2 hours a month is NOT "insanely dirty", it's enough time to keep the inside vaccuumed and the outside hosed off. Those $30 car washes and 3 hour Saturdays have been used to pump up a 401K. I'm retiring at 55 with a not so shiny car:thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

You must work for the gov't if you can retire at 55! You could buy a small mansion for the health care expense it will take to cover you from 55 until Medicare at 65.

Kevin

[Katana]

I use the SONAX wax and I am very pleased with the result.

Is it wrong that I put wax every time that I wash the car(4 times a month)?

[tomjasz]

You must work for the gov't if you can retire at 55! You could buy a small mansion for the health care expense it will take to cover you from 55 until Medicare at 65.

Kevin


No no gubberment work, just plain hard work and a dirty Yaris to save more money:laugh:

(being DINKS helped Double Income No Kids, recreational sex is cheaper than procreational!)

[tomjasz]

BTW when I was a kid waxing the yaris was something you did under the sheets when mom went to bed....

[07WYarisRS]

Another Zaino user here

NOTHING is better at least not off the shelf from walmart or canadian tire.

That truck was after one coat.
the bike has two.
On a black surface it's hard to tell what color the paint really is because it reflects like a mirror. It's wild stuff.

I've not done the Yaris yet but I will before snow falls, I'm all out and have to re-order.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v474/hardlydangerous/cars%20and%20trucks/truckmarch7.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v474/hardlydangerous/Honda%20VLX/vlx12.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v474/hardlydangerous/Honda%20VLX/bike6.jpg

[Billstein]

Wait a month after you get the car. The paint could be still settling. :)

I was wondering if somebody was going to say this.. Except
I was told to wait 6 months something about the paint and clear coat.

[07WYarisRS]

New cars are not painted like the local body shops

You can wax them once you get them home.
With a fresh paint paint job slow cured like from 99% of most autobody paint shops you need to wait a couple months. Then wet sand the entire car polish and buff. 99% of car owners or shops don't wet sand and polish paint unless it's a show car.

I anyone has seen the TV overhaulin' they used a quick drying paint booth, where temps as high as 190 degrees bake the paint almost like a powdercoat and cure it within' hours. From there it can be sanded and polished and waxed. This is the same process as the factory finish on ALL cars. It makes the paint far more durable so they can use LESS paint and cut costs

[yuiedie]

just washed and waxed teh car, ahhh, unfortunately, it started to rain as soon as i drove out.....@%#^&#$%!!!

http://img102.imageshack.us/img102/244/dscn0221ia0.jpg

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/6782/dscn0188iz9.jpg

[swng]

Nice job!
BTW, I see something like rubber linings on the edges of the doors. I may be wrong but I presume that they are devices meant to prevent the denting of the neighboring cars while the doors are being opened. I hope every car has them and I respect whoever installing them on their car doors:wink: :smile::respekt:.

[yuiedie]

yup, cheap door edge guards from walmart! considering how big the doors are on the liftback, i figured this would help prevent chips and dents.

[swng]

Thank you yuiedie:respekt:!
Wish you many years of safe and happy motoring!

[Billstein]

New cars are not painted like the local body shops

You can wax them once you get them home.


:thumbup: Cool Thanks My Z-6 arrived friday Looks like I have a busy weekend to look forward to.

[Billstein]

A shine well worth the elbow grease,
N:biggrin: otice the sun glints.

[eTiMaGo]

ah! my eyes! Those cars are just too bright!

[Jfoofoo]

As the weather gets colder and snow season approach. Any recommendations of a good wax, that can last my little Yaris through the harsh winter’s snow and salt?
Currently I am using turtle wax ice, however I don't think it last as long as they claim it on their website. While it does make my car shinny and pretty. I don't really plan on waxing my car in the winter every 3 to 4 weeks.

[07WYarisRS]

Zaino

it's not a wax but well worth every penny.
by far the best stuff I have used.

[swng]

So shiny! Where are my sun glasses?

[Jfoofoo]

Zaino

it's not a wax but well worth every penny.
by far the best stuff I have used.
Does it last for at least 3 month on the car and can protect against all the nasty stuff on the road in the winter?

[07WYarisRS]

Yeah
go back to page 3 and look at my truck
The pic was taken in the middle if March, lots os snow, sand and salt on the road and my 7 year old dialy driver with 170,000k looks like it just rolled off the showroom floor.

If you find something better then that I'm very interested !

[Jfoofoo]

So which Zaino products did you get?
I am looking at the basic
ZFX Flash Cure Accelerator Additive
Z-2 PRO Show Car Polish for Clear Coated Car Finishes
Z-6 Ultra Clean Gloss Enhancer Spray

[Billstein]

So which Zaino products did you get?
I am looking at the basic
ZFX Flash Cure Accelerator Additive
Z-2 PRO Show Car Polish for Clear Coated Car Finishes
Z-6 Ultra Clean Gloss Enhancer Spray

I did Z-6 its a new car i didn't think it needed a polish yet.
:thumbsup:

[keesue]

I just ICE'd mine and I gotta say this is good stuff. I could feel a lil draggin' when applying it so I know it needed it. The car was built less than 2 months ago! Now it is smooth as a baby's bottom. I have used alot of different products but this is by far the easiest to use and it produces a clean clear look. Just like putting baby oil on a baby.

Update: Morning - a thin even layer of morning dew - the sign of a slick surface. Whe it dried, on the top i saw a few water spots. I used the ICE spray to tidy-up. Sprayed it on and good to go. I'm sticking with this stuff and staying on top of my game.

[eco]

Billstein,thats averys nice shine.GOOD JOB.

[acrbill]

With the upcoming snow that we are expecting I decided to get some wax on my 2 day old Polar white HB. I broke out the mothers sealer/glaze and carnuba.

After a thorough wash with Meguires gold class I noticed that I got the "special" paint job. I found that the front bumper had all sorts of metallic contaminants that made their way into the clear coat, and began to create millions of tiny rust spots. Thank God I had a chuck of clay bar left. It took me 2 hours to get all the crap out of the clear coat. I gave it another quick wash and applied the glaze and wax. I sure am glad I did because it is going to rail all day today.

I am hoping we get at least one warm day in the middle of winter so I can get another coat of wax on it.

Detailing a white car does nothing for the ego. No matter how well you polish it, it will never have the stunning effect of a darker color.

It does make finding contaminants easy though. :laugh:

Here she is in all her polished glory.

http://home.comcast.net/~job0b/pc1.jpg

[vodkalush]

exactly, the only difference I really can see after waxing is at night while driving.

[that one guy.]

exactly, the only difference I really can see after waxing is at night while driving.


i agree. i waxed mine yesterday and i really didnt notice until it was dark and my car looked like glass it was amazing. :thumbup:

[jonr0613]

i tried turtlewax hardshell finish...and it was really nice with my yaris....people would envy you to see how shiny your yaris is....and because of that someone keyed my yaris from the passenger side all the way to the side of the trunk:slice: how i wish i saw that while he was doing it so that i could slice the face of that idiot....:evil:

[YarisMax]

I've found that Oznium.com carrys a line of great yet affordable waxes and sealants. I use them on my Yaris!!:thumbup:

[RogueYaris]

I just Ice'd my car and it was so much easier than than using normal wax and it didn't take as long. I would definitely recommend using this. It has a high price tag when it comes to wax but it is sooooo worth it.

[static808]

Detailing a white car does nothing for the ego. No matter how well you polish it, it will never have the stunning effect of a darker color.

http://home.comcast.net/~job0b/pc1.jpg

i also agree that polishing a white vehicle pays dividends at night. after a fresh coat of meguiars sealant or a quickie job with quik detailer and quik wax, our sienna looks like its dripping wet at night. then the day comes and it blends with the 5 other white minivans on our block (ours still looks better in the day, but at night it can literally embarass some beamers and benzes rollin down the street).

--B

[keesue]

I use ICE too. There is so much controversy about how long it lasts and how well it protects after washing. It is so easy to use one can use it more to make up for that and one doesn't have to use that much either. The results are so satisfying on my meteorite color - clean and clear. I actually used a paste wax to compare. The ease of use outweighs any slight difference. ICE is good stuff.

[speedracer]

First of all let me start by saying that I have over 25 years of experience in the automotive refinishing biz. The clear coat on your car is actually a clear paint just as durable if not more then the actual color paint under it. When a dealer offers you a clear coat protection they are actually selling you a wax job. $500 to $995 for a wax job! The interior protection is often just a can of scothguard sprayed on. Save your money and skip these add-ons. The exterior protection coverage on these extras often run the same as the factory waranty. Your main rust prevention on the new cars is a zinc coating placed on the bare metal under the paint. You can have your car profesionally buffed with out any worries of the clear coat coming off. I emphasize professionally. In the wrong hands a buffer can act just like a sander and remove the clear and the color paint especially on the edges of the panels. (Even if you use Foam Pads.) The Best thing you can do to protect your finish is wax your car. The type of wax is a personal preference. I have found the best protection is usually a paste such as turtle wax type. It provides a thicker film of protection against the elements then a simple spray on wax. Wax should be applied according to manufacturers suggestions. Also you should wax your car as soon as you get it. The paint will have been totally cured and all fumes released from the paint by the time it gets to the dealers lot and waxing it right away will add the extra protection to help keep it looking new

[Nimble]

My dealer said wax (they suggested Turtle), twice a year. I listened to their advice, but wax can be a pain.

Lol, Turtle Wax is probably the worst brand of product out there. If you have to buy OTC products, at least go Meg's. For the enthusiast out there, read up and become a member at autopia.org and learn from the best. Below are my fav brands.

Poor Boys
Pinnacle
Wolfgang
Collinite
Optimum
Four Stars
Blackfire
Klasse

From one person or another you're bound to here 2 brands I didn't list above....Zaino and Zymol.

I've never used Zymol but from what I've read, their top quality stuff works, but is matched/beaten in looks/durability by other brands for less money. Zaino, on the other hand, I used to swear by, until I looked into other products for less money that work as good or better. Problem with synthetic polishes like Zaino is that they are more "shiny" than deep looking like a quality wax. Sure they last longer than a wax, but I detail my car more than twice a year. If you plan on only doing a full detail twice a year, use Klasse AIO/SG combo. Better than Zaino, and price competitive.

[forpinks]

I Tried that cheap Eagle1 NANOWAX at Walmart... well its crappy!

even if you use a microfiber cloth and after 10 coats its still not shiny on my friends absolutely white 07 Corolla S,
Also I felt this sticky feeling on it and and my microfiber cloth does not glide smooth... HOW COME?

Im going to try that Turtle WAX ice on my Yaris when I get it.

[Nimble]

I Tried that cheap Eagle1 NANOWAX at Walmart... well its crappy!

even if you use a microfiber cloth and after 10 coats its still not shiny on my friends absolutely white 07 Corolla S,
Also I felt this sticky feeling on it and and my microfiber cloth does not glide smooth... HOW COME?

Im going to try that Turtle WAX ice on my Yaris when I get it.

Did you not read mine and other's posts? T Wax sucks. period.

[Pavel Olavich]

My new yaris will be here next week,I'm already to go and buy new products to protect her. What should I get,what is the best? I just saw something on QVC called final detail and it looks like great stuff! You can use it on the whole outside of the car even the plastic,windows,trimming etc and it want make that white flaking mess. It should them putting it on a car and then showing a penny slide down it,then they showed how it sheeted off water etc,I know that must waxes will do that when applied right. But,this stuff looks easier to put on that that paste wax stuff. Should I order this stuff or should I just get me some the Meguiar's NXT Generation Tech Wax which is supose to last longer than regular wax and protect the paint longer that just plain wax? But I don't what do you guys use on your Yaris?

Thanks in advance

YotaYarisUSA

Eventhough your Yaris is brand new, trust me, during trasit at time it left the factory, it already has grit embedded in the paint...could be salt, I don't know but the grit one cannot necessarily see, but one can sure feel it.

BEFORE you wax your new car, get Mother's clay kit and us that product per the directions....it will make a big difference in the feel of the paint, making it very slippery smooth...and for a brand new car, this is often needed...trust me, the before/after differene to your finger touch is astonding!

[jamal1984]

So what is the steps to make your car clean shine and wet looking?

Wash, Clean, Polish, Clay, Wax, Detail?

[Nimble]

Wash
Spot dry (no need to fully dry since you're going to clay next)
Clay
Rewash
Fully dry
Polish
Your favorite LSP (last step product) i.e. sealant or wax, I prefer sealants.

[rstb88]

mothers clay is too soft in my opinion, i suggest clay magic clay bar. the grit your feeling is actually coming from rust particles that fell from the steel crates our vehicles were shipped in.

[Nimble]

Either Mother's, Meguiar's, CM, or Sonus will be fine.

[rstb88]

Beware of Sonus grey, it causes micromarring beware, and heed the warning. please

[Nimble]

Agreed, try Sonus green or I like Meg's white.

[jamal1984]

is Black Magic, Armor All and Eagle One are them goods?

I see some ArmorAll Car wash including wax, is that mean you don't have to wax your car again after washing your car with ArmorAll Car Wash & Wax.

[esquiva]

car wash w/ wax is just car shampoo w/ wax effect...but its not the same as actually waxing ur car

[Nimble]

car wash w/ wax is just car shampoo w/ wax effect...but its not the same as actually waxing ur car

Yeah, not even close, it's a gimmick.

[Vervepipes]

On my old vehicles I used the colour match wax by turtle wax, it really hides scratches well if you have them. I also use a 10 or 12" orbital polisher and it saves a lot of time on the process (make sure the pad is contacting the car's surface before you turn it on! It goes everywhere otherwise)

[jmjonesey]

Wow, The Turtle Wax ICE works wonders, I can see from my third floor apartment, that I have the shiniest car in the whole lot, even more than the new chrysler 300m that someone just bought

To top it off, this is the first time I have ever polished/waxed a car, and it turned out damn near perfect!

[jamal1984]

Wow, The Turtle Wax ICE works wonders, I can see from my third floor apartment, that I have the shiniest car in the whole lot, even more than the new chrysler 300m that someone just bought

To top it off, this is the first time I have ever polished/waxed a car, and it turned out damn near perfect!

look like turtle wax ice is winning over Meguiar. Seriously i tried Meguiar's polish and wax on my old pathfinder and hardly shine at all, i don't know if i did it right.

[jaspie]

look like turtle wax ice is winning over Meguiar. Seriously i tried Meguiar's polish and wax on my old pathfinder and hardly shine at all, i don't know if i did it right.

My results were good with Meguiar's ~ I could see my reflection :eek: ~

Basically you gotta wash it first....then Scratch X (gets rid of scratches and defects) then paint cleaner (bring out shine in paint), then the polish and protect (gives it a wet look.....I use the Meguiar's Wet look polish and protect) then Wax.....(I use Gold Class Wax)

Here are some pictures of my room mate's Camry Sportivo I worked on just a few days ago ~ Need to clean my car soon too ~

4409

4412

4411

Meguiar's is pretty good ~ I like it ~

Jaspie ~

[eTiMaGo]

looks good!

now we need to see better reflections of you :wink:

[jamal1984]

My results were good with Meguiar's ~ I could see my reflection :eek: ~

Basically you gotta wash it first....then Scratch X (gets rid of scratches and defects) then paint cleaner (bring out shine in paint), then the polish and protect (gives it a wet look.....I use the Meguiar's Wet look polish and protect) then Wax.....(I use Gold Class Wax)

Here are some pictures of my room mate's Camry Sportivo I worked on just a few days ago ~ Need to clean my car soon too ~

Meguiar's is pretty good ~ I like it ~

Jaspie ~


man i wish i got a room mate like you. look pretyy good, how long it took you to do all that?

[jaspie]

man i wish i got a room mate like you. look pretyy good, how long it took you to do all that?

Well because we have water restrictions here ~ I used the 2 bucket washing way in my garage ~ So one with the wash and one with plain water to clean it ~ This is slower of course.....all together from Wash to final wax ~ 6 - 7 hours ~

I like the results though ~

Jaspie ~

[jaspie]

looks good!

now we need to see better reflections of you :wink:

Heh ~ You wish :tongue: ~

I'll see how it will turn out on my Yaris ~ Maybe a better reflection will come out but.....she is white so that might be harder ~

Jaspie ~

[jamal1984]

Well because we have water restrictions here ~ I used the 2 bucket washing way in my garage ~ So one with the wash and one with plain water to clean it ~ This is slower of course.....all together from Wash to final wax ~ 6 - 7 hours ~

I like the results though ~

Jaspie ~

it took me less than 2 hours from wash to wax my car. i guess that why my car not shinny and wet looking. :bow:

[jamal1984]

Heh ~ You wish :tongue: ~

I'll see how it will turn out on my Yaris ~ Maybe a better reflection will come out but.....she is white so that might be harder ~

Jaspie ~

how come no one want to see my Reflection? :laughabove:

[jaspie]

it took me less than 2 hours from wash to wax my car. i guess that why my car not shinny and wet looking. :bow:

Hahaha ~ That is one other thing you need to keep in mind when washing your car....the willingness to spend 6 hours to A WHOLE DAY washing it ~ :thumbup:

Hehehe ~

Jaspie ~

[jaspie]

how come no one want to see my Reflection? :laughabove:

Heh ~ :bellyroll:

Jaspie ~

[Nibs]

First of all let me start by saying that I have over 25 years of experience in the automotive refinishing biz. The clear coat on your car is actually a clear paint just as durable if not more then the actual color paint under it. When a dealer offers you a clear coat protection they are actually selling you a wax job. $500 to $995 for a wax job! The interior protection is often just a can of scothguard sprayed on. Save your money and skip these add-ons. The exterior protection coverage on these extras often run the same as the factory waranty. Your main rust prevention on the new cars is a zinc coating placed on the bare metal under the paint. You can have your car profesionally buffed with out any worries of the clear coat coming off. I emphasize professionally. In the wrong hands a buffer can act just like a sander and remove the clear and the color paint especially on the edges of the panels. (Even if you use Foam Pads.) The Best thing you can do to protect your finish is wax your car. The type of wax is a personal preference. I have found the best protection is usually a paste such as turtle wax type. It provides a thicker film of protection against the elements then a simple spray on wax. Wax should be applied according to manufacturers suggestions. Also you should wax your car as soon as you get it. The paint will have been totally cured and all fumes released from the paint by the time it gets to the dealers lot and waxing it right away will add the extra protection to help keep it looking new

THX! I'm picking up my Yaris in two days and you just saved me alot of $.
I had originally bought the clearcoat, undercar treatment package for $500. But after researching on here I realized I can just do it myself. It's dumb but I thought they were actually doing the clearcoat paint job themselves. So I called up and sure enough it's just a wax job. Funny he still tried to sell me on it saying they do a really good job with bluffers and the whole five year warranty speel.

I've never had a car worth waxing before but sure will with this one. ICE wax seems to be the most popular so far. Will do as soon as I get it home.

how do you guys feel about the touchless car washes out there? i mean atleast just for the first wash when I get home before waxing

[jaspie]

THX! I'm picking up my Yaris in two days and you just saved me alot of $.
I had originally bought the clearcoat, undercar treatment package for $500. But after researching on here I realized I can just do it myself. It's dumb but I thought they were actually doing the clearcoat paint job themselves. So I called up and sure enough it's just a wax job. Funny he still tried to sell me on it saying they do a really good job with bluffers and the whole five year warranty speel.

I've never had a car worth waxing before but sure will with this one. ICE wax seems to be the most popular so far. Will do as soon as I get it home.

how do you guys feel about the touchless car washes out there? i mean atleast just for the first wash when I get home before waxing

Touchless car washes do nothing ~ I took my Honda Civic there once (when I still had it, that is) ~ Went home.....ran my finger along the side.....and my finger was dirty from the dirt STUCK ON the car ~ I never went again ~

Hand washing is the best method.....time consuming and tiring it can be but you'll be really impressed and happy with the results ~

Jaspie ~

[jmjonesey]

Touchless car washes do nothing ~ I took my Honda Civic there once (when I still had it, that is) ~ Went home.....ran my finger along the side.....and my finger was dirty from the dirt STUCK ON the car ~ I never went again ~

Hand washing is the best method.....time consuming and tiring it can be but you'll be really impressed and happy with the results ~

Jaspie ~

Amen to that, if youre gonna go to a car wash, dont pay for the touchless, if ur in a hurry, just pay the one dollar for a quick spray off, it will do a better job.

[jaspie]

Amen to that, if youre gonna go to a car wash, dont pay for the touchless, if ur in a hurry, just pay the one dollar for a quick spray off, it will do a better job.

Yep ~ Touchless car washes here cost around AU$13 ~ so expensive ~

Jaspie ~

[nick1983]

I bought some ultra polish http://www.ultrapolish.com/Catalog.asp glare aircraft polish. I used it on my Yaris and I think impressive results, After I did both applications I RAN INTO A LOT OF BUGS (one every 1/2 to 1/4 inch on the bumper) after a rain this morning the bugs were all gone but for two. It is suppose to last 5 years. (time will tell) as for chorme I did it to my bike and can you say mirror. It was fabulous. I still want to get some plastic covering for the front end. As for now ,so far so good!

I think I will have to try It.

Any Pics?

[churp]

I normally rinse and dry my car again after waxing...read a few places this sets the wax (if you can understand/believe it). I live in the middle of Amish land....lots of farm land and dust. Without a rinse after waxing, many waxes act as dust magnets....I tried TW Ice Paste last night, without a final rinse, and today the winds came up and my little Black Betty looks like it was stored in a dirt floor shed for months, even the outer edges of the windows are dirt wherever the microfiber cloth touched. I'll use the TW Ice Paste once more with a rinse to see how it reacts....but I really got to say it's the worst dust magnet I've used in over 40 years! :iono:

[joe keeney]

I use Muguirs gold Shines like a spanked baby bottom.

[Doug007]

I agree with the Meguire's Gold, which I apply every 3-4 months. Works well and my car always cleans up well. Great product!

[jamal1984]

i tried out Black Magic Liquid Wax today, and FUck it, i'm not gonna use that thing again. Take forever to clean the wax, and them wax still on my car. Beware of Black Magic Liquid Wax.

3M and Ice, plus Meguire is the best i used so far.

[jamal1984]

here is the new Product from Meguire
NEW Ultimate Quik Detailer... (Formally known as 129D)
http://meguiarsonline.com/forums/thread/75.aspx

[jamal1984]

i will switch to Meguire CLEANER WAX which i saw at the store today, i will give it a try tomorrow to see how it's turn out.

[whoguy]

Hi,

I use Meguires NXT paste.... takes effort to put on and the shine is pretty good.
Problem is, it is dusty when wiped off. Do not polish in the sun or you will get streaks.

Seems to last a while especially if used with a wash and wax car wash. I used Formula 1 wash and wax and it give great results.

Thanks

[grampi]

I highly suggest Zanio! It works wonders! Ill see if i can get pics of my buddies Mazdaspeed that he used it on... after he had layered it several times it looked like a mirror NO JOKE!
I will be telling the dealer NOT to wax, wash or touch the exterior of my yaris (whenever it happens) and i will be applying Zanio the first day i get it.
http://www.zainostore.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc

Its a bit pricey but SO worth it.
When i get pics you will understand.

I've tried many of the waxes and polishes on the market, and none of them can even come close to comparing with Zaino. The shine it produces is the best I've ever seen, and no other wax/polish lasts even close to as long. I've had Zaino still beading water on my vehicles after a year, and they're always parked outside. I won't use anything except Zaino. For best results, wash vehicle with Dawn dish soap, use clay bar, then apply Zaino. The results are nothing short of astounding!

[Nimble]

I've tried many of the waxes and polishes on the market, and none of them can even come close to comparing with Zaino. The shine it produces is the best I've ever seen, and no other wax/polish lasts even close to as long. I've had Zaino still beading water on my vehicles after a year, and they're always parked outside. I won't use anything except Zaino. For best results, wash vehicle with Dawn dish soap, use clay bar, then apply Zaino. The results are nothing short of astounding!


That's a mighty fine opinion, and while Zaino makes good products, as a pro detailer, I can assure you there's better. For less money. :wink:

[Nimble]

In fact, here's the proof.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u238/Nimble27/zzzz-1.jpg
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u238/Nimble27/driverrearang.jpg
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u238/Nimble27/DSCN2239.jpg
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u238/Nimble27/DSCN2236.jpg
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u238/Nimble27/DSCN2228.jpg
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u238/Nimble27/DSCN2287.jpg
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u238/Nimble27/DSCN2286.jpg
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u238/Nimble27/DSCN2276.jpg
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u238/Nimble27/DSCN2274.jpg
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u238/Nimble27/DSCN2270.jpg
http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u238/Nimble27/DSCN2268.jpg

[grampi]

That's a mighty fine opinion, and while Zaino makes good products, as a pro detailer, I can assure you there's better. For less money. :wink:

It definitely looks good, but I've seen Zaino shines that good. What is it and how long does it last?

[jamal1984]

black cars will look good on Merguiar, Ice, Mother... if you put a little bit time into it, me i do wax my car once a month, or polish it and wax it once a month-I know it's a waste but that is my habit and it's make me and my car happy. :)

[jamal1984]

In fact, here's the proof.

That is a bad ass job there Nimble, bad i mean in a good way.

[Nimble]

Lol thanks Jamal!

No worries grampi, I used to use Zaino, so I know its merits. The old Z2 was *plasticy* looking in my eyes, especially on black and red cars. The new Z5 pro is a nice compromise of looks and the durability of a sealant. The pics of the Yaris is with duragloss 105 tpp, a sealant ($9.99 for 16oz, less than 1/2 the price of Z5 pro). All the rest are with my fav wax, Clearkote Carnauba moose wax. http://store.danase.com/clcamowax.html

[Nimble]

Oh and the DG 105 tpp will easily last as long as Zaino sealants, i.e. 5+ months. The wax is a decent durability for a wax, about 3 months. I can't wait 6 weeks to add/change what's on my Yaris, so 6 months+ is a waste for me unless it's winter.

[grampi]

Great! I will give the DG a try as I like to try new (even if they're only new to me) products all the time for comparison sake. Where do you buy this stuff? Thanks.

[marcus]

questing about ice anyone.. should i used ice then wax or wax then ice it..and what is the best paint sealer out there..im scared to use one due to it might damage the clear coat...??

[Nimble]

Great! I will give the DG a try as I like to try new (even if they're only new to me) products all the time for comparison sake. Where do you buy this stuff? Thanks.


The cool thing about DG products is that they are available locally via Carquest and other places. You may have heard the craze over "Aqua Wax," well if so, they also make that product. It's a spray sealant/gloss enhancer that works amazingly well. Check duragloss.com for local places that have it. I think Napa does too. Online, Autogeek has it for good prices.

[grampi]

I'll check it out. Thanks.

[uncleyaris]

remember to checkout echo_hrs. his car has a deep outstanding colour and shine. I think he uses Zaino, that shit is really good!!!!!

[grampi]

questing about ice anyone.. should i used ice then wax or wax then ice it..and what is the best paint sealer out there..im scared to use one due to it might damage the clear coat...??

Are you talking about Turtle Wax Ice? If so, I wouldn't bother with it.

[Nimble]

The main thing I find alarming about online forum "wax speak" is that many view it like this.

Turle wax, mother's, etc (over the counter items) vs ZAINO (the ONLY boutique product!!!!)

It gets annoying because I feel for you guys that only hear the word Zaino and jump like God just entered the building. In truth, their entire product line is avg at best. Even the sealants are bettered by other companies.

I mention companies like Clearkote, Jeff's Werkstatt, Optimum, Four Star, Einszett, Finish Kare, Collinite, Pinnacle, Poor Boy's, Chemical Guy's, P21S, etc and you all draw a blank. It's not your faults (you don't detail for money like I do). I'm just saying taking some time to actually research before aimlessly listening to some herd of Zaino nazis on the forums and their recommendations....."DUDE, I'VE GOTZ 54 COATS OF ZAINO ON MY RIDE....IT SHINES LIKE THE DICKENS!!!!!

Ok, now I feel better.....

Justin....dispelling the Zaino myth one forum at a time. ;)

[rstb88]

I agree I agree:laughabove: . All I hear over at Autopia is use Zaino, its the only thing that works great with that colour, or the durability of this product is nothing compared to Zaino. I haven't personally used Zaino cause I won't fork over the money for a mediocre product when I can buy something better in town for much less. Like Duragloss. I just wish some more of the products listed would be available locally, I hate ordering online stuff. I'd love to get some einzett. I don't even professionally detail, I just love to keep my car spotless.

[keesue]

If you clean the paint and polish it, whatever wax/sealant you use will shine at its best. The issue then becomes how long they last. ICE tends to last the shortest while the harder paste waxes last the longest. Sealants, as a general rule, last for months. Everything else in between is just hype. The differences are so miniscule they don't justify the price difference (assuming one can see them side by side on the same car). If you clean, polish and keep it ICE'd up, you're good to go in my experience. I keep mine ICE'd to the bone. Got it from Chino Charles.

[keesue]

I forget to mention that I use Meguairs to clean and polish. I seal it up with NXT and keep it ICE'd up from there. These products are available OTC. ICE is fantastic.

[r300f28]

I agree with jamal1984. The Black Magic goes on fairly easy, but is a pain in the arse to get off. You have to keep rubbing & rubbing and still it doesn't come off clean. Allot of work for an average shine. Won't use it again.

[marcus]

isnt ice a sealant? what are the sealant products im confused..

[keesue]

isnt ice a sealant? what are the sealant products im confused..

Wax can either be a natural carnauba, a synthetic formula or even a combination of both. In point of fact, a wax - either natural or synthetic - is a sealant and is referred to as a LSP (Last Step Product). sealants are most commonly cited as a synthetic.

A polish is designed to address paint issues - to make the clarity best for the sealant/wax to shine at its best. It is typically used before a sealant.

ICE labels itself as a polish. It is synthetic in formulation, does polish and it also seals.

[marcus]

i see thanks.!!

[keesue]

The trick is to polish the car's surface with a 'real' polish (even a new car), optionally glaze it, seal it up with a synthetic sealant x2, wax it up with a good carnauba and keep it all up with ICE. Great stuff that way. Easy on/easy off, shines on top of wax like crazy and seals it. I use the detailer, which has clarified carnauba in it, for touch ups. Let each coat 'cure' for a day before applying the next.

This is how I use ICE for what it's worth.

[grampi]

"ICE" by Turtle Wax is the best and easiest stuff I have used in years. no residue at all. Just remember, on a car with clearcoat, you are not waxing the paint, you are waxing the clearcoat, so if you wax toooo much and/or toooo hard, you will eventually ware throught the clearcoat, and then the paint will have no protection from the elaments.:eek:

TW Ice is a waste of money. It only lasts about 2 weeks. Meguiar's stuff is a bit better, but there are way better products than either of those available. Zaino, Duragloss, and Classe all make far superior products and I'd highly suggest that you check them out. Don't waste your time or money on the others.

[marcus]

i have tried ice. their not the greatest, longevity wise but i believe one needs to wax coat then ice..may work better that way..ice = sealant i think. then again im sure others got different opinions..

[keesue]

There are a few topics that will cause fervor and disagreement: Politics, Religion and car wax are three of them.

There are a few irrefutable facts:

1. Polishing the paint, clear coat, is THE most important thing one can do for shine. It clarifies the surface so light can refract. Consider it like polishing a diamond. Claying is an important preparatory step as well.

2. One would have to work their fingers, arms and shoulders to the bone over a period of years with a polish to remove the clear coat layer. With a machine, a rotary in particular, one would have to use a wool pad with a VERY agressive compound with the clear intent to accomplish this. Removing clear coat is generally done with sandpaper in a body shop.

3. A glaze replenishes the oils lost in the paint from the sun drying the surface and leeching these constituents out of the paint. Consider this like putting lotion on dry skin.

4. A sealant does just that, it seals and protects the paint from leeching. It can be synthetic or natural. This step is at its best after polish and glazing.

5. Once a surface has been prepared, by machine or by hand, the differences in sealants fall into several categories:

a). Longevity
b). Feel (slickness)
c). Reflectivity (shine)
d). Ease of use (caking, hardness to remove)
f). Cost
g) Availability - over the counter vs. boutique (special order)

The reality is, once the surface is prepared, a wax is a wax. Carnauba varies by source, refining techinque, volumne and additives. A sealant varies by the polymer. In reality, there are only a few of them. Most of the companies rebrand these. There are a few large chemical companies who produce polymers. There are a few chemist who add chemicals to these base stocks to differentiate their products.

The following is NOT an endorsement of any brand but statements of fact:

1. Meguairs have been in the business since the teens. Glaze is one of their oldest products. They made their name in their professional product line where cost to performance ratios are critical.

2. Zaino, as well as the other so-called boutique or specialty products have their following. They all have their pluses and minuses relative to price, performance and use. Zymol has a wax that costs $1,800.00 a jar. Pinnacle's wax is $80.00 and so on.

3. Turtlewax made its name with a solid carnauba wax and their products are adequate for the price. ICE is their newest offering. It is easy to use, readily available but doesn't last as long. That is the trade-off.

4. Duragloss is considered by many professional detailers to be one of the best sealant spray wax for the performance and cost. Inexpensive and super to use.

Bottom line: Buy the $1,800.00 wax or buy ICE. Either way, prep the surface the way the pros do: Clean, Polish and Glaze, use what you like to seal in the look and maintain it with readily available, quick, easy to use and keep your ride looking top notch.

Hope this is helpful...

[grampi]

It gets annoying because I feel for you guys that only hear the word Zaino and jump like God just entered the building. In truth, their entire product line is avg at best. Even the sealants are bettered by other companies.

Really? I have personally experienced Zaino lasting over a year on my vehicles, which are parked outside all the time. So since Zaino is only an average product as you say, I suppose you're going to tell me you know of some that'll last for 2 or 3 years? If not, then how are they superior?

[JetfireK]

Just when you think...you have the smoothest finest wax job in the world. Take a wrapper off of a cigarette pack, put your fingers in it...and run your hand over the wax job. You will cringe because you will feel everything that is underneath your paint!...And you won't believe it......