Jan 22, 2015

If you have not heard of the clay bar, you are missing a marvel.  The clay bar is a necessity in body shops and detail establishments everywhere, and you too can own one. It is a good idea to keep a clay bar in your garage. La Grange area Toyota Scion service encourages owners to explore the many benefits of the clay bar.

Car washing

What is a Clay Bar?

A clay bar is used to remove any contaminants or overspray on a vehicle’s exterior.  Sometimes washing simply will not do, so the clay bar comes to the rescue. A clay bar resembles kids’ play dough or silly putty. The type of clay bar type you need depends on the amount of cash you are willing to spend and the type of job you are tackling.

 

What Can I use a Clay Bar for?

Just a heads up: a clay bar is not effective at removing swirls or chips in a car’s paint.  If the blemish or damage has penetrated the paint finish, a clay bar will not be useful.  You will need to see a detailer or body shop.  Clay bars are used to remove surface blemishes and contaminants from the car’s paint or glass.  You can use a clay bar on the following:

  • Tar and road debris
  • Overspray
  • Insect remnants and bird poo
  • Brake dust and rail dust
  • Acid rain and hard water stains
  • Tree sap
  • Anything stuck on or slimed across the vehicle glass, except for scratches, swirls and rock chips.

 

How to Use the Clay Bar

Refer to the packaging instructions before you tackle the blemish.  Be careful not to dull or mar the car’s paint.  The basic steps for using a commercial clay bar are:

  1. Wash and dry the vehicle.
  2. Mold the clay by squeezing it in your hand.  You will need to flatten it into a disc shape. Plunge the clay bar into a bucket of warm soapy water or apply a clay bar lubricant.
  3. Gently rub the clay bar over the area until the contaminant is gone. Make sure the clay bar stays moist.  When you are finished, wipe a clean towel over the area.
  4. Completely dry the area and inspect before continuing.
  5. Use a wax or sealant on the area to restore shine and protect the paint.
  6. Return the clay bar back to its original packaging or discard it if you cannot find a clean surface.