i went through the car wash today (i know i know, please try to keep the flames to a minimum - it's boston and i don't have a garage). when i came out the other side, i had a good chance to see all the damage that's occured since i last hand washed (probably october).
1. major crease in little panel in front of passenger door. that trapezoidal shaped thing.
2. f'in snow brush scratches. a couple catch with my fingernail. most don't.
3. some mild curb rash on 2 wheels.

that really covers it. all in all, not too bad for a boston winter. what i don't understand is how my bumpers have held up. most people park by feel here, and my bumpers are literally perfect. guess there are silver linings to some dark clouds.

all i know is i'll be busy in april. i'm wondering if i'll need an orbital for the snow brush scratches...

oh, and anyone have any good recommendations for body work in boston? that can also refinish wheels?

 

Yeah..the first time I do a good wash is always terror. In fact I just noticed a new BIG scratch over my gas door yesterday. I just bear it till the first wash of the spring where I can give it a good wash then spend several hours with touch up paint and scratch-x, then a week later a good polish and wax. It's amazing what the winter here does to paint.

Best place for body work around here is sublime. For wheels I've heard recommendations for a rim place in Newton, I think rimworks or something like that.

 

I'm dreading washing mine now....I hope it turns out better than what happened to yours....ouch.

 

i'm scared. i had a close call a month ago, i washed my car and some brake dust got caught on the adhesive residue from a sicker that was on my tire from the factory. It was just cold enough that then i rubbed at it it felt like the aluminum had delaminated from the wheel. i was minutes from calling the dealer when i check it again and it felt sticky, thats when i realized that it wasnt so bad. it still took 10 minutes to clear a 1" square of residue. i can only imagine how bad it will be after a winter.

 

Have you ever used Honda spray polish? You can get it at Honda motorcycle shops. It's the best. Cleans, shines, and protects painted parts better than anything you'll ever use. Only cleaner/polish I'v ever used that'll instantly cut through chain lube on a rear wheel. It'll clean anything in seconds and won't harm paint. Perfect for wheels and removing tar on painted surfaces. Smells good too.