As you probably notice I have an American flag graphic applied to my roof. The material and cutting of the flag was done by a company that does most of the Nascar graphics so the material is a top notch 3M brand. :smile:

The flag has been on the car for almost three years with absolutely no problems. However after shipping my car over to the UK from the USA a whole series of "small white spotting" has appeared on the red stripes and blue star fields.

I believe this spotting was caused by environmental factors during the cars shipment overseas, perhaps from standing outside on the docks too long in New Jersey. Can anyone recommend a method to remove this white spotting, it sort of looks like tiny water spots that have dried over time.
Thanks

 

I would first try soaking the area with a good QD. Keep it WET for awhile, like 10-15 minutes. Letting the QD to float the minerals. Then dab at the spots, don't rub them.

 

Lot15:

When you say QD do you mean a "quick detailer"? If so which one would you recommend? Thanks

 

You choose your QD based on your wax/sealant. Meguiars makes a couple good QD sprays that I've used. If you have Zaino, nothing is better than Zaino Z6 (God I love that stuff).

I've heard of using dilute vinigar washes to remove water spotting, but I would make it very, VERY dilute for your printed graphic and I would try it in a small area first. You might also progress to a paint cleanser, but this has abrasives in it (a very small amount of very fine abrasive) and solvents which could melt the ink on your flag... again, be very careful to try in a small area first!

Whatever you do, keep your movements soft (dabbing instead of wiping) until you are very sure of your methods and products. Use a microfiber or very soft cotton towel. When you get the spots off, make sure to keep a good wax (every 1-2 months) or sealant (Zaino or Klasse) on your vinyl to protect it from future spotting events and UV exposure.