Hello,

I have a MCC which is no more than 4 weeks old. I am planning on washing/waxing shortly but have a couple questions:

1. What type of wax is already on the new car?

2. I am looking at Zaino and figure I wouldn't need to clay bar yet due to the invishield - would the Zaino wash/wax hurt the invisheild?

3. Should I use dawn for the first wash? Than apply Zaino.

4. Any recommendations for which Zaino products?

5. Can I apply these products in the sun?

Thanks in advance

 

1: Only God knows what the dealership put on there. Definately do the Dawn wash (Question 3) to get rid of whatever crap the dealer put on there.

2: Go ahead and clay. You have all sorts of stuff on the finish from the shipping process that would be good to get off of there. It only takes an hour or so on a MINI and it leaves everything silky smooth. Clay anything that isn't textured (paintwork, glass, wheels & chrome).

3: Dawn, due to its alkaline nature, strips off all the wax and road oils. This is essential (esp. given that you don't know what the dealer did in question #1) for Zaino to bond to the paint.

4. If you don't have a leather interior, get the regular Zaino kit to get everything at once... It's $80-90 or so and a great value. Good choice on going w/ Zaino. If you have leather, get the full kit that is around $120. The full kit gives you the regular kit + leather cleaner + leather conditioner (excellent stuff) + rubber/plastic dressing (also great for the interior). Add some Meguiars #40 for the exterior plastic and you are on your way!

5. You can do it in the sun, but I wouldn't recommend it. Zaino and other polymers are easier to buff off than other products, but if you can find some shade on a warm day, it will make it much easier (and much more pleasant). If it isn't hot out, don't worry about it and get to work!


I went crazy a few months ago and posted my entire detailing process here. It should answer 95% of your questions: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...iled+detailing