Just picked up an '04 MCS and decided to do the whole routine (clay, polish, wax) this weekend. It occured to me that I wasn't sure whether to clay or use the P21 first. Any suggestions?

matt

 

Since you just got your MINI and want to start from ground zero, you probably should:
1) Dawn wash the whole car, including rims (but only use Dawn very sparingly each year. For me, I only Dawn wash once every year or two).
2) Clay bar routine, including rims.[my preference, Magic Clay]
3) Some people like to wash again before polishing/waxing (maybe here is when you use the PS 21); I like to just start the Zaino routine after claybarring.
4) Polish/Wax (including rims)
5) Dressing on black plastic trims/moldings. [303 Aerospace Protectant]
6) Chrome polish actual chromed metal pieces (door handles, headlight trims). [I like using Autosol, excellent German stuff.]
7) Clean windows. [Stoner's Invisible Glass]

8) If you have enough energy left (or you can tackle it next weekend), give a good wipe down of the interior including the engine bay and boot, vacuum interior, wash rubber mats, dressing on interior plastic parts.

9) Now go out and motor on!

(ps-do an "Advance Search" and just type "BradB"...he's The Detailing Guru with excellent tips)

 

clay then p21s

 

Dawn wash, Clay, wash then paintwork cleanser.


See my entire process here: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ad.php?t=37303

I've been using Sonus paintwork cleanser with a Porter Cable Dual-Action pollisher. I've heard good things about P21S paintwork cleanser.