red90q

Have done the search thing already but cant find a definite answer. I'm hand washing my car for the first time this year. I want to strip and clean all the wax and other crap off the paint before I start fresh and do a Mothers 3 phase wax job on her. Some guys have mentioned Dawn. Any comments or other options are appretiated.
Cheers
Ian

Pat

Dawn, or any regular dish soap should do the trick.

S5nirvana

Some cleaner waxes should also remove old wax.Check out Phil's site if you haven't already purchased

roadyTT

Claying will get you the results you're looking for.

RKA

One of those Mother's 3 phases will remove any existing wax.

IanB

Most wax, or any LSP (last step product) will no longer be protecting your car after 4 months. Some will last 6 months, but it is difficult to get that type or protection. So, if you have not waxed the car all winter, assume it is all gone.

Now, this does not mean that you won't need to prep your surface before trying to keep it clean and smooth. I would highly suggest a clay kit (either the mothers one or the blue clay magic one over the counter is good, but they are both going to be very fine clay. So, you will need to use a little pressure to remove stubborn tar and other contaminates) After the clay kit, you should re-wash the car to remove any clay residue left on the paint. Then apply the three-step from mothers or some other company. You will be shocked how smooth and sleek the car looks.