Xciton

I've been noticing over the last few months, that the left rear section of the car (where the exhaust is) is looking VERY dull. Like the paint has some type of "film" on it.

I've tried washing it: Nope
I've tried Dawn dishsoap: Nope
I've tried Simple Green: Nope

The only thing that has made a difference was 3M's SMR and IHG. That appeared to remove the problem. I'm I just covering the problem instead of removing the containment?

Anyone ever see this? I'm pretty sure it's a film 'cause it's also on my tail lights.

The car's only 3 years old. It's never had a waxing yet (I'm about to).

Ideas? I'm getting worried something bad has happened to the paint.

Style12v

It almost sounds like a film from the exhaust, caused by running rich.

I would first try a clay bar to remove it, that is much more gentil than SMR.

Xciton

Nothing is giving me any indication that it would be running rich (I wouldn't know what to look for actually)

I'll try the clay bar (I might have tried that already, can't remember).

Can I rest assured that the SMR is cleaning it and not covering it up instead?

HDClown

So if that area around the exhaust pipe seemed blackened, you are running rich, or have some other problem.

As for it being dull, the rear of the car builts up more grit/grime than the rest of the car in a much faster pace. Try some clay bar and see what that does for you.

SMR doesn't cover up, that's what IHG is for.

mpwolf

I'm guessing that it's just your ehxhaust particles sticking to the car. The 3M products should clean it off, a clay bar will also work very well. How often do you wash? Once you get a good coat of wax on the car, the soot should wash off easier and the dulling shouldn't occur. Just be sure to wash it regularly and wax it at least twice a year.

Xciton

Yes, it's washed often. I'll try the clay bar and see what comes off. I've got Blitz coming so I'll be waxing shortly.

mpwolf

Cool, good luck. Let us know how it turns out.