I have an 08 Nismo that's only a month old. The paint is still smooth and I don't think I need to clay it yet (I've also read somewhere that brand new paint shouldn't be clayed for a while).

My question is can I wax without the clay bar step? In other words, can I go directly from wash/dry to wax/buff?

 

Clay bar is overrated. Use a good one-step cleaner-wax.

 

Nah I would definitely not clay it especially since it's only a month old..

just use a good wax, you'll be fine.

 

You would be amazed how much "crap" is no the paint of a brand new car. I would suggest using the clay bar and then a good polish and wax.

Les

 

how old is the car itself? not how long you have owned it

 

you can clay and wax it. your car's paint is probably more than a year old already. Unless you got the car straight from the factory and delivered to your house they day they produced it, you can clay. All paint that are on dealership lots are cured.

 

i wouldnt even bother waxing or claying for 6 months, unnecessary

 

As others have said it is fine to clay if you want to, but honestly you may not need it.

DO wax it. The sooner that fresh paint is protected the better.

 

You certainly do not have to use a clay bar but it does help the detail come out much better. You can skip the clay bar and go right to wax if desired. New vehicles rarely, if ever, are given the proper care. I highly recommend detailing it as soon as you can.

Using a clay bar will help deep clean the paint and provide a far more clean surface. I've used a clay bar on vehicles with less than 10 miles and got plenty of road grime on the bar. Removing these build ups also helps the wax or sealant bond to the paint better for longer lasting protection. If you would like a recommendation try the Chemical Guys Clay Bar and Chemical Guys Luber (Chemical Guys products are 20% OFF until 3/23/09).

As for protection I would definitely recommend using a wax or a sealant. A sealant may be a better option for you because they protect quite a bit longer. Sealants essentially are artificial waxes that don't look quite as deep but will last significantly longer. My favorite sealant is the Chemical Guys Jetseal 109 if you want maximum protection. For a great value try the Chemical Guys M-Seal. Again both options are 20% off if interested.

If you want you can also just use a carnauba wax or layer a wax on top of the sealant. For the best value try the Poorboy's World Natty's Blue Paste Wax. It's easy to use and looks really glossy. If you want a premium wax try the Chemical Guys 50/50 or any Dodo Juice Wax.

If you have any questions about using a clay bar or any other product please check out our Detailing Guide or ask me. I hope this information was helpful and I look forward to hearing from you!

Greg @ Detailed Image