...hey guys, I was wondering if using a ClayBar leaves swirl marks (tiny scratches not necessarily circular since you are only supposed to go up/down right?) on the clear coat of the car?/ I know it removes dirt/grime and leaves surface nice and smooth, but it is a little bit of an abrassive (that's why it takes off the dirt/grime you can't see right?). I used it a lot of times on my previous car (black) and I would see small clear coat swirl type marks...but being a black car, I did not know if it was from the claybar or what (you see absolutely everything on a black car). Anyway, the product worked great, and wan't to use it on my silver 350Z before waxing, but I am afraid it will leave small marks on the clearcoat (even if the wax would cover them up, especially since it's silver)....any ClayBar experts out there??

 

Up and down is correct, but if you're scratching your surface with the clay, you might be pressing too hard. Remember, you use a lubricating spray between the clay and the car, so the clay should be gliding over that surface, picking up anything in it's way. I've never heard of clay leaving scratches, but perhaps some of the seasoned "clayers" here might give you some pointers on technique.

 

Clay in itself is not abrasive. What it does is grab the dirt particles that have become attached to the paint surface. Wxtornado is correct in that you must keep the surface that you are working on well lubricated and move the clay back and forth letting the clay "glide" across the paint. Don't apply a lot of pressure.

Do the car in small sections. Use only one side of the clay "patty". After each section fold the dirty side in on itself. Then flatten it out again for the next section. Wipe off the lubricant from each section when done using ONLY 100% cotton towels. Don't let it dry on the paint.

Thoroughly wash the car when you're completely done. If you follow these simply instructions and use a good quality clay you shouldn't scratch your paint.

Have fun!

 

The clay should not scratch or leave swirls. Make sure you use enough lube and always use a fresh surface of clay. If you ever drop it on the ground, toss it and use another piece!