Hi folks...

I'm a fairly new MINI owner (bought a used MCS in December), and was surprised at how quickly it developed a dirty backside. A quick read of these threads convinced me that this is a normal thing.

Here's my question... the first time I washed the car, I found that there were two round areas on the hatch just above the license pate that were hard to clean. I'm guessing that there are lights for the license plate that these are cooking the dirt onto the car.

My assumption is that everyone has this, but I havent seen any discussions about it.

Should I worry about this ruining the finish in some way? Is there anything I can or should do about it?

 

I never let it stay dirty long enough for that to happen, are you sure the previous owner did't seal any dirt on the car w/ wax from a lack of attention to detail?

 

I don't think so... the car looked fantastic (only 12,000 miles in 3 years). I removed all the gunk (fun with my first claybar!) when I did my first detailed had wash...

I notice that when I have been driving around in wet weather (I live in a rainforest), that the two "hotspots" will be dry -- baking on the fresh dirt.

 

hmmm. I've noticed to spots, to left and right of plate about an inch off, when I drive by the beach on a rainy day, but I always wash it off before it becomes baked on. I'd just provide the word of warning, paint is where MINI
decided to save money, so it is thin. Hopefully somebody else could be more helpful, now excuse me while I go out to the garage and check my hatch

 

What color is you MINI? I have a PW/B and have noticed that I can't let anything sit on the finish or I will have to work to get it out, especially on the hatch.
Annette

 

Chili Red with white MCS... here's a pic:

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...0&ppuser=21526

 

I have seen this on my MINI before, but it has always just washed off with no problem.

 

The black stuff is just that, stuff that gets stuck there from the road. If your surface is very well protected with a sealant or wax, it should come off when washing. If it doesn't, you'll have to hit it with a clay bar and lubricant.

mb

 

Hmm... Just a thought... has anyone tried replacing the light bulbs with something that would generate less heat?