I've just acquired a used Sportback with very low miles (9k) from a main Audi dealer. The car is just under 3 years old and while it doesn't seem to have received much body care, it looks to be free of obvious swirl marks and scratches. I used to enjoy car detailing, but I've just done basic washing and waxing in recent years - the A3 is my first used car for some time, which means that most of my cleaning products date from about 2003-4!
I spent a few hours inspecting and cleaning the car today. The main issues I could see were slight tar build-up around the arches and a generally rough feel to the paint (Garnet Red metallic). The dealer also appears to have prepared the bodywork with a very strong wax - more on that later.
After a quick wash, I used Autoglym tar remover as required, rinsed, and then hand-applied Meguiars Deep Crystal Step 1 on most of the panels. This got rid of the tar, but didn't leave an especially smooth finish. I've read that I should probably use a clay bar, but I didn't have one to hand! I then proceed to apply Meguiars Deep Crystal Step 2 and finally Autoglym Extra Gloss Protection to most panels.
The results are ok - but there's definitely still a slight roughness to the panels when felt by hand. However, even in good light, I can't see any obvious contamination, swirling or fine scratches.
I was just wondering if the dealer's own wax could be a factor here? It looks like it's spotted over some of the window glass and almost feels like a tree sap!
I spent a few hours inspecting and cleaning the car today. The main issues I could see were slight tar build-up around the arches and a generally rough feel to the paint (Garnet Red metallic). The dealer also appears to have prepared the bodywork with a very strong wax - more on that later.
After a quick wash, I used Autoglym tar remover as required, rinsed, and then hand-applied Meguiars Deep Crystal Step 1 on most of the panels. This got rid of the tar, but didn't leave an especially smooth finish. I've read that I should probably use a clay bar, but I didn't have one to hand! I then proceed to apply Meguiars Deep Crystal Step 2 and finally Autoglym Extra Gloss Protection to most panels.
The results are ok - but there's definitely still a slight roughness to the panels when felt by hand. However, even in good light, I can't see any obvious contamination, swirling or fine scratches.
I was just wondering if the dealer's own wax could be a factor here? It looks like it's spotted over some of the window glass and almost feels like a tree sap!
i have a black A3 i had a similar problem and i have brought a buffer, but i dont want to use it because there is apparently a special way to use it an i could end up with more swirls, i had not tried a clay bar but im am guna get one this weekend,loads of people recommend different polish and wax but 'ROLTYA3TURBO' is right best to try the cheaper option first what have you got to lose? then go for the pro, i will let you know how i get on with mine.
