I generally like to keep my 08 (sand white) really clean and looking good. Just before purchase about 1 1/2 years ago the PO had someone do a correction and ceramic coating and it is usually easy to clean and the finish like silk- until a couple of days ago. While driving went thru a really heavy rain storm, got home, parked inside as usual and didn't give it a second thought until washing it the next day. Noticed it had a really rough feel to it after wash and dry. It is worse on the horizontal surfaces than the doors, but still a bit rough everywhere. Took a microfiber cloth with a bit of alcohol and whatever on the surface came off, but I did only a tiny place for fear of damaging the paint. At times in the spring and fall here in Atlanta some of the trees give off some sap like stuff that is more spotty, and it comes off easily. Whatever is on it now is much worse.

Hoping to hear some suggestions on what to use on the entire vehicle without damage. The least harsh substance that may not take of the ceramic coating either.

 

Clay Bar is the best way to take off surface containments and will return the smooth feel. I do it before every polish. Check Griots

Mark

 

Thanks Mark. I actually have one from Griot's, I generally like all of their products.

 

Isopropyl/Distilled water is a great way to remove certain contaminants and it is completely harmless to paint. You will need to apply protection after using isopropyl as it will strip most types of protectants.

 

Also a decontamination cleaner like this: https://poorboysworld.com/iron-remov...w-sprayer.html

 

Clay bar with spray detailer as a lubricant for it, then re-wax or seal to preserve it.

Just did my Cayenne a few weeks ago

 

Clay does work very well but using it will result in micro scratches on the paint. I only use it just before I’m going to polish the paint as a decontaminant. Isopropyl and other cleaners will break down tree sap/tar etc and allow you to remove it without scratches.