OK, help me out. I have a 2007 convertible. Never been waxed by me (since July 0f 07) and I have some questions as I prepare to wax it and I need some opinions by y'all. I do not have the time to be a "crazy" detailer, although I would very easily go to the dark side if time allowed. These are real basic questions I'm sure.
First, when I first got my car, had the dealer or Mini detailed the finish with a wax, or was the shine only the paint job?

Second, any recommendations for a good wax, that doesn't take too long to apply and buff? I am certainly willing to buy a buffer. I have used micro fiber cloths on the finish and it has nary a scratch at this point or swirl marks. Being very gentle. I wash it every one week to 2 weeks max.

Are detailer sprays a reasonable way to go between waxes?

Just a moderate detailer wanting to get the most out of the finish with very limited time....

 

If you're willing to use a buffer, I'd get Epic for a long-lasting protection. Then you can use Hydro whenever you wash to boost the shine and longevity of the protection. You can do Epic without a buffer but I find it's way easier with it. I can Epic the entire car in under 15 minutes, then wait the half-hour for it to dry, and it buffs off very easily. Hydro you then use after washes, just spray it on the wet car and work it into the paint while you dry.

 

i would consider the Zaino system. it is not wax-it is a silicone that bonds to the paint--and gives what i have found the brightest and deepest shine i have ever seen. it does take extra effort up front--but then you dont need to do much but every 6 months. after you finish your car surface will feel like glass. i just bought a 2006 mini s convert jcw-and its finish wasnt so great. now the car looks brand new after multiple coats of zaino. zaino.com has all the products and info. its more expensive than most--but worth it. you will find the top pro detailers would place zaino in the top 3. i am sold!!

 

Sorry this is just more Zaino hype. There is a large discussion out there about synthetic polymers and whether they contain silicones or not. There are good silicones and bad silicones and Zaino has always touted themselves as not having any bad silicones in them.

I'm glad you like Zaino, but what you describe about feeling like glass, not having to use it every 6 months, would be true of any synthetic polymer based sealant that's applied to a properly prepped surface. IMO, spending the time to make a car look like new isn't good enough--it has to look better than new. Prima does that...... with one coat. =)

Richard

 

Do you know where your friend had it done, so in case I get a recommendation to have mine put in, I don't go there.