I used a Meguiars Clay Bar for the first time this weekend, after thoroughly washing my Stang. I used a ton of detailer spray, since I was worried about dragging scratches across the paint. And I definitely noticed I was picking up some stuff off the paint.

My question is, how do you know if you did it right? I mean, I don't see any obvious scratches, but I don't think it looks that different either?

Sorry if this is a stupid question, I'm just a noob at this and want to make sure I'm taking good care of my paint.

 

You'll know it's right by running your hand across a panel that's been clayed, then across one that hasn't. the difference in smoothness should be readily apparent. You shouldn't feel any grittiness, it should be very smooth. Some recommend putting your hand in a sandwich bag to feel the panel. I just use my hand & fingertips.

 

did you wax it after the clay bar

 

do the rub test as was mentioned


clay bars wont take out scratches, they simply get the contaminates on the surface of the paint. it used to be called overspray clay because it was used to take the overspray of a paint repair off of good panels.

to get the scratches out, you'll need a scratch remover that you can find at any of the auto parts stores.

and remember to make sure you put a coat or two of wax back on the car after you clay, because the claying process strips the wax off the paint.