Greetings!

I've got static cling bonnet/boot stripes from Finish Line (cooperaccessories.com) and I've always been careful about their application and storage. The car's always clean and quick-detailed before the stripes go on, and the stripes themselves are kept clean and rinsed well in lots of clear water. Over the spring/summer, I had been keeping them on for a week and then off for a month or so.

In July, I started to notice a difference in the way water beaded up on the bonnet, and when washing the car, I could tell where the stripes had been. I worked on the areas with a wool mitt and lots of clear water, and thought the issue was resolved. Now, however, I've noticed there's almost a residue where the stripes were. The last time I washed/waxed, I thought it went away, but in the sunlight at the right angle, I can clearly see where the stripes were (note that I can only tell on the bonnet, not the boot).

Should I get a claybar and see if the bonnet's blemishes clear up? Or should I use some Scratch-X or some mild polish to rub out the marks? Anyone experienced this before? Thanks in advance for any tips!

 

Clay is really an issue for embedded debris in the paint which I don't think is your issue.

I do think you need to clean the paint. ScratchX is probably WAY to aggressive for what you need to accomplish. You didn't say what wax you use. A good cleaner wax may be enough. Or a super fine swirl remover, or paint cleanser can fix a lot of paint issues. I would go that route. Either one of these are a good product to have in your cabinet. Use a pure foam applicator and a microfiber towel to polish off.

 

Thanks a million!

I bought some Meguiar's paint cleaner (yeah, I know, I know, there's better stuff out there...) and started working on the bonnet yesterday. It looks like the paint cleaner is going to do the trick, so I won't be sleeping on the couch just yet. It is the wife's car, after all, and I was dreading the conversation where I tell her that her paint is effed up.

Whew...
:wiping brow: