It'* finally looking a bit like spring, which makes me think it'* time to going shopping for some car detailing products. As I have previously mentioned, the black paint on my car is in need of a bit of attention, so everyone, what do I need to make sure to buy? I've heard of the three step system and claybar which I'm planning on purchasing, but is there anything else, or any parts of the system which would be best substituted by something else? Any products which would help with the swirly marks in my front fenders? What do I need to put on the inside of the doors to prevent the (very) minor rust from intruding on the ouside? And then when I do get all of this stuff, what order do I use it in and is there anything I need to know?

Thanks so much, Jeanie

*sorry admins, I hope you don't mind, I know this will mostly likely bring up repeat information from past threads, please don't be annoyed with me :? *

I can't answer all your questions, but my best tools are a soft brush on a long handle for washing.....cuts wash time immensely, and a california water blade for drying.

For swirl marks, use Liquid Glass. It simulates a factory clearcoat. Used car dealers use it to sell cars, and it works. I use it a couple to 3 times a year.

For some of the finer detailing work and to get off harsh grime is Bug and Tar Remover. That California blade is nice, but I'm a chamois man, I get personal with the car.

Get a nice chrome cleaner to make the shoes sparkle

I love the 3 step system and claybar, I finnish with gold glass for that deep look.
I use turtle wax chrome polish then zoop seal my rims lasts a long time and keeps them shinny.

Yeah, I'm going to be digging out the can of Bug and Tar Remover because it'* been suggested that I try that to remove the white PVC mark on my drivers side rear door (car meets PVC fence, not a good situation).

The chromies are all shined up already, I did that before they got put away for the (long) winter season.

i'm a fan of the phase system............the claybar is good the first time u use it.....otherwise the 3 phase works just as good.


as for ur white pvc mark........meguiars makes a body scrub....or even just the step 1 cleaner could work. if those don't work.......a liquid rubbing compound and some muscle should do the trick..........always remember to wax after using rubbing compound!

quick side question here:
If you apply Liquid Glass, how long does it last on the finish?

And to add a side question to the side question: Should I use that instead of something or after I do everything? or if I'm going to use the 3-step, do I not use it at all?

liquid glass works for me

Me too. What step is Liquid Wax?? My car began it'* life as a rental, so it'* got some swirls to deal with....