We're noticing micro scratches in the paint from just wiping down the car with quick detailer and a diaper or microfiber. Nothing that won't polish out, but I've never had this happen with our other cars. Then again they all have silver metallic paint which hides surface imperfections rather well. Is the MINI clearcoat just softer than other manufacturers, or is this the price I pay for non-metallic paint? Any other CR owners have difficulty keeping their wheels micro scratch free?

 

just get a good polish and they will disappear(orb buffer helps)

I have had great luck with Menzerna products. On of their resellers actually uses pics of my 04 CR Cooper in their ads.

 

I know non-metallic paint isn't quite as forgiving, but that said you should still have good luck getting the swirl marks out. Check out the Detailing 101 forum for lots of good advice.

 

Throw away the diaper. It will not have a cotton edge and this will scratch the paint.

I recommend a water blade and blot the remainder dry with a quality microfiber towel.

Also a grit guard in the bucket and good suds and micro fiber mitt will do wonders.

This is also a good quick read:

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ead.php?t=7933

 

Going4speed is right, get microfiber, they wipe better than anything.

Also, you mention using you are using quick detailer. You need to make sure you are removing the dust before you wipe down. You need to get a car duster to get the grit off the surface before you wipe the car down, this will keep the scratches down. Try the California Car Cover duster, been using them for years.

Good Luck.

 

Here is another options. Use spotless water to avoid the tradition towel dry the car. Save energy and avoid scratch marks

 

after I (car) wash my MINI I take and drive it a bit to wind-blow most of the water off, then use clean microfiber towels to get the rest.

and if using a car duster be careful not to press too hard, for they can produce scratches as well. Lightly, lightly!

 

Thanks for all the tips. It's been freezing here (although today it hit 60) so I can't use DI water. Most of the dirt road grime on the rear hatch, so a duster doesn't do much. It's been basically the car wash and quick detailer. I'll remove the scratches with either ScratchX or rubbing compound.

 

I use the yard blower to dry. It gets the water out of all the cracks, and I don't have to drive around...although is a lot more fun to go around curves to get the water out.