canadianeh

I saw someone in this forum suggested a simply Zaino washing/maintenance plan

1) Washing with Z-7

2) Z6 Gloss Enhancer

3) Z8 Grand Finale Spray

I bought some clay bars but haven't done this yet.

Looking for some tips/other suggestions on keeping my new Q5 sparkling clean....Just gave it the first wash - used this process. It looks amazing, but any other tips are gladly accepted.

uberwgn

Well, one of your most important steps for preservation is going to be polishing the paint and sealing it (or coating it).

Weekly washings, including cleaning the wheels, are part of your long-term strategy.

Welcome aboard!

canadianeh

I didn't buy any polish or wax or anything like that yet. I once used a wax on my old vehicle and has terrible results. Clearly wasn't doing it right.

I have IBIS White paint. Is my paint clear coated or normal paint?

On a side note, can someone tell me how to get this forum to display so the first post always starts at the top?

uberwgn

I'm sure that's something you can modify in your personal settings.

914Audi

I *think* this will fix your display option, but won't guarantee it. ;-)

1. In the upper left menu selection "User CP"
2. Then select "Edit Options"
3. Then scroll down to section "Thread Display Options"
4. Under "Thread Display Mode", choose the "Linear - Newest First" from the drop down menu.
5. I don't recall if there is a requirement to save options, but look for that.
6. closer your browser and start over.
7. If it works, great. If it doesn't, don't blame me ;-)

canadianeh

That did it. I want oldest first.

Thanks

HadoukenZR

Not sure if you saw the Zaino post from me or not but I remember posting quick Zaino suggestions a few months back

Here's what I do for our Pearl Black Q5...Or any of my cars for that matter. The other car I've followed this Zaino process religiously is my 2003 350Z. It's over 10 years old but still looks brand new. Funny story is, back in 2010 I had some random guy in a Mercedes pull up next to me and ask "Wow, is that a 2010 ??" ... My reply "No, it's a 2003 !!" ... LOL ... Anyway, you get the point


Complete Detail Process (Done 1-2 times a year)
(I did this the first week I picked up the new Q5)

1) Wash your car with Z-7 car wash solution

2) Wash your car with dawn dish detergent : Dawn is ultra concentrated and will strip off all clear coats off the car.

3) Claybar :
- Get a nozzle spray container and mix a solution for the claybar using Z-7 + water. I would say a cap full of Z-7 for 16oz bottle is plenty.

- Spray the solution on the car and slide the claybar over small portions until it's smooth as butter. You can verify with your bare hand. There should be no specs or containment feel. Repeat until entire car is complete. Make sure to continually knead the clay so a fresh portion is being used. If you drop the claybar on the floor, throw it away and use a new piece.

4) Wash car with Z-7 car was solution again

5) Apply 1 coat of Z5 polish with ZFX. Will need to wait 1-2 hours before buffing off. Apply different coats if needed to remove swirl marks

6) Apply 2 coats of Z2 polish with ZFX. Will need to wait 1-2 hours between coats and buffing off.

*For the extra mile*
7) Apply a coat of Zaino All-In-One

8) Apply a coat of Zaino Clear-Seal

9) Finish with Z-8 Grand Finale

10) Step back and put on sunglasses. Because it WILL be blinding!


Regular Maintenance (like you mentioned)
1) Washing with Z-7
2) Z6 Gloss Enhancer (I usually just skip this and use Z-8)
3) Z8 Grand Finale Spray


I am not a super big wheel cleaner guy but I recently started using wheel cleaners (Sonax). It's a simple spray on and sit for 5 minutes. Then spray off with water. It gets most of the dirt and build up off the wheels but good to just scrub the wheels a bit also. BTW, it smells like crap though !

And of course, always need to keep those tires shined up ! I currently use the Zaino Z-16 tire gloss but find Eagle one or other brands may be good as well. Z-16 is more of a nice clean black finish rather than super shiny look. All preference here.



On a side note, you should always be using microfiber cloths for all your washing / drying / detailing. My personal recommendations :

- Washing Mitt : Meguiars Microfiber wash mitt :
- Drying Towel : Big Blue Microfiber towel

- Detail Towel : Adam's Double Soft Microfiber Towel



Perhaps I gave more info than requested but hope it helps !! The complete detail process is very time consuming but if you want to keep your car looking new and clean you can't go wrong with this !

HadoukenZR

Oh yeah.... Also very recommended to get a clear bra installed.

Look for a installer with good reviews on yelp or something.

There are many different clear bra materials out there so do your research.

I personally went with Venture Shield and had a custom install for the entire front of car + rocker panels. Costed around $1300 and took a day for installation.

canadianeh

Hadn't thought about a clear bra.

Can you snap a pic?

HadoukenZR

It's going to be hard to see because its clear ! lol...

Custom install wraps the edges around the corners so you can't even see the parting lines unless you really look for it.