Detailing Sprays - Do They Scratch Paintwork?

[markjp]

If you use a detailing spray between washes are you likely to scratch the paintwork from the dirt and dust particles on the paintwork?

[Brocky]

Generally, quick detailer sprays have decent lubricity and will prevent marring of the paintwork on a clean car, if used with a good cloth.

That said, a quick detailer is designed to be used to add a layer of protection at times when a full wax detail isn't an option..

Really, they are designed to be used as a means of 'topping up' an existing protection regime....and not as a waterless wash method....so if you use one on dusty or dirty paintwork, then yes, you are likely to doing the paint more harm than good.

I would be looking to wash the car first, if it is dirty....which, if you have a good base of protection in place already, should be very easy to do....and then use the QD after drying.

There are waterless wash products out there, if this is what you're aiming for. I believe ONR is one of the best, but have never tried one myself.

For QDs, I would recommend AngelWax QED. Also, Sonax Xtreme Brilliant Shine Detailer has been getting rave reviews. It apparently offers hydrophobic properties that surpass even some spray sealants. That's very impressive.

[whiteDevil_170]

What he said ^^^^^^

Totally agree with everything. I wouldnt use it on a dirty or dusty car. Id wash the car 1st then use the quick detailer to top up any existing protection . Or to just give it that extra shine. I still belive that even using onr a leading waterless wash brand it would still inflict some kind of swirling or marring to the paintwork.