Is dish soap safe for washing my car?
Absolutely not. Dish soaps are highly alkaline degreasers designed to strip organic oils. Used on automotive paint, they will strip protective waxes, dry out rubber weather stripping, and accelerate clear coat oxidation. Always use a pH-neutral automotive shampoo.
How often should I clay bar my paint?
Only when necessary, typically 1-2 times per year before machine polishing or applying a new coating. Clay is a mild abrasive and will cause micro-marring. Utilize chemical decontamination (iron and tar removers) first to minimize the need for mechanical claying.
Can I apply ceramic coating over carnauba wax?
No. Ceramic coatings require bare, mathematically clean clear coat to bond securely. Wax creates an oily barrier that will cause the coating to fail and reject immediately. Always chemically strip the paint before coating application.
What is the difference between a polish and a compound?
A compound is a heavy abrasive designed to level severe scratches and heavy oxidation quickly, often leaving a hazy finish. A polish utilizes micro-abrasives to refine the finish, removing the haze left by the compound and restoring deep optical clarity.
How do I stop my microfiber towels from scratching?
Wash them using a dedicated microfiber detergent free of dyes, perfumes, and fabric softeners. Dry on low heat or no heat. Fabric softeners clog the microscopic polyamide fibers, destroying their absorbency and making them stiff and abrasive.