I just rewaxed my car with Nu Finish Paste. The last application lasted 8 months before it stopped beading. That has been my experience over 15 years of using Nu Finish.
I just went to a collector car show this weekend and saw a polimer wax called Finish First. Of course the rep said it was better than Liquid Glass and equal to Zaino. His point was that it does all of the steps that Z does with one coat.
Anyone ever heard about Finish First or had experience with it?
The length of time a wax will maintain its durability and shine is a a factor of many variables...ie. park outside every day? subject to salt and sand in winter? subject to industrial fallout? do you wash every 2nd day, every week or every month etc. Therefore, its hard to make a valid comparison on which wax outlasts which without a controlled environment test OR trying various brands yourself since many of these variables will be the same for each wax.
Prior to my current use of Meguiars, I used Mother's Calif Gold. It did a good job for shine, but found it did not last. So I tried and switched to Meguiars Gold Class, which is what i currently use. It provides great shine, especially when you use the body scrub first (body scrub 2 times per year). However, I too, with the environment my car is subject too (salt and sand in winter, parked outside all day during week, no industrial fallout known, and wash once per week in summer, and once every two or three in winter) found that Meguiars "beading characteristics" lasted longer than the Mothers, but not as long as I would like.
To the point. These posts are extremely informative but only you can judge how a wax ranks with other products you have used. If you're happy with the wax you use, stick with it. If you're not, or you would like to try something better, explore on your own. If cost is a factor, use up the wax you have and when done, try another product.
Personally,I've read the reviews on Zaino, and I figure the only way I will know if it is a better product than Meguiars, IN MY SITUATION, is to try it. I just purchased a 00 Subaru Outback and I want to keep it looking top notch. So, I don't mind putting a few extra $$ into a better wax. I will be placing my order for Zaino in short notice.
I have been fanatically maintaining cars for nearly 30 years, and I believed that I knew every way to coax a great, long-lasting shine out of a car finish, and have been very proud of my results. I have been very happy with Meguiar's, Wax Shoppe and 3M products, especially with proper preparation (Try using a wash with Dawn and claying beofre waxing instead of the body scrub or glaze that may remove paint to get smooth).
After participating in this and other forums for a year, I decided to try Zaino on one of our cars last weekend. It was very easy to use as the car was already quite smooth from the claying last wax job, and the resulting shine is simply an order of magnitude better than ANY wax I have tried. Even neighbors driving down the street were gawking at the car (a 3-year old Accord, un-garaged).
NOW - how will it last? Will it offer the protection we expect? Will it stay glass-shiny? I will be watching it carefully and, I hope, objectively, and will let you all know. If it works, I am certainly open to trying something different.
I placed my order for "Z" today, but likely won't be able to apply for a couple of weekends. But as soon as I do, I will post results on the "other" Z thread.
Bruce, I was not trying to "sneak" in a Z comment, but to follow up on the excellent remarks by luck 11 that objective study is needed.
Again, I am sure that everyone here is interested in getting the best possible shine and durability for their car finishes.
As an avowed skeptic, I am now testing the theory in an objective manner, so I can offer at least some closure to the "what is better?" issue. Is there anyone here that would not change to using earwax, camel dung or "Joe's Magic Paint Elixir" if it REALLY gave them a better shine and more protection? I certainly have tried worse in the past 30 years!
I agree with jster. Let's hear about peoples experiences with other products that are readily available as the name of the topic clearly states. I am about to apply One Grand Blitz to my car and will post the results. Of course the shine will be extremely dull in comparison to the zealot wax, but I guess I will have to live with it!
Correct me if I'm wrong, but a "store bought" wax should have no bearing on whether or not someone's experience with a product should or should not be extolled on this board. If someone feels "Z" is better, this absolutely is an appropriate forum to discuss his/her results. Same goes with any other wax. Where else do people get the benefit from other people's experiences without having to jump from discussion to discussion just because someone has a burr up their you know what over a certain product? Get a life people! You don't like it, skip the post and move on! I personally have learned more by reading both camp's thoughts, and isn't that the intent of a discussion board? And when you think about it, it's a heck of alot easier to drop an order form in the mail than to go from store to store wasting valuable time looking for the right product. So much for that theory, huh?
I don't think this has anything to do with free speech. It has to do with the right of people to discuss certain things without some other things being discussed. The point is that we KNOW what some are going to say. We already build that in to our consideration. We KNOW that whatever we use is only a poor second in comparison, but we don't want to hear it every hour of every day. We should have that right. I may buy some of that other wax some day, but right now I am perfectly happy with what I am using and although I was not involved, I am sure that the separate forums have saved a lot of time in useless arguing. Lets respect the right of association as much as the right to spout off. I read both forums. I would welcome some form of pseudo scientific comparison, but I don't think that is likely to happen in my lifetime so let's keep them separate but equal. To each his own.
to intrude, but I thought you all were here to try to do the best for your car, and wouldn't mind hearing from someone like yourself that is willing to do an objective comparison without preaching either way. Why the resistance?
If you are truly not interested in hearing the results about a possible improvement, OR proof that the "zealots" are full of BS, then I'll be sure not to mention it again.
I have read every single post in ALL of the topics here at Edmunds that have discussed Zaino, as well as every post in this topic and the one that preceded it.
It is true that fifteen to eighteen months ago the "Waxes and Polishes" topic got out of hand in posts that pretty much lambasted folks who did not want to use Zaino. That is when the precedent to this topic was created.
However, the posters involved have since moved on. Since then, in my observation, the anti-Zaino posters in this topic are far more reactive to the mention of "Z" than the posters in Waxes and Polishes are to the mention of any other products.
My suspicion is that some folks over here were so turned off - perhaps rightfully so - during that period well over a YEAR ago, that they have not checked back in that topic to see how things have developed.
Yes, there are still many people posting there who love their Zaino. BUT, no one is being attacked for not sharing the same opinion.
OTOH, a mention of Zaino over here does indeed invite an intense reaction.
I think it's time we all give it a rest. We are all different, we all choose what we think is the best, by whatever criteria we find important. We are all here to share opinions and learn from others' opinions. If we see a post/opinion we don't care for, we can certainly just move on to the next post.
I'm not suggesting that this topic become the place to discuss Zaino; it has been well established that product belongs in the Waxes and Polishes topic. But I AM suggesting that if someone is offering what he or she believes to be an objective opinion, there is no reason to attack that poster for being in the wrong place.
My several-more-than-two-cents worth. :-)
Pat Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
I just found this topic because I rarely go to the main topic lists. I just go to my placemarks. I'm just curious why no one has posted any pictures of their cars for all to see? Can I be the first?
These pics were taken on Feb. 21 right after I came out of the touchless car wash and wiped off the car. My car is 21 months old, driven everyday in all kinds of weather and garaged at night. I think it looks pretty good for the winter. You should see what it looks like in the warmer weather! LOL...
My experience was that Nu Finish left residue on my plastic parts. Someone wrote somehwere a while back that rubbing peanut butter on the residue will rmeove it. I haven't tried it myself...
I've heard about the peanut butter method too for those pesky, textured plastic parts with wax residue. I've never tried it personally, but I trust the person who recommended it.
For your 2+ cents worth. I was unaware of the previous problems caused by some over-zealous folks. I was only trying to share some helpful information, because, as you say, that's what we are here for.
It's a shame if a few ruin it for the rest, as very valuable information may go unused. However, to flatly deny something potentially very beneficial without trying it is the mark of a fool. I guess there will always be those that decry modern advancements.
When I get a little further along in my testing, I will let the forum know. If anyone who really wants the best for their car wants to know the results they can email me.
pat455: I have read every post in these forums also. Lurked, since about the beginning, then started posting recently. It is true that the rather distasteful lambasting that went on from some Zaino enthusiasts is over (and make no mistake, some of it WAS quite distasteful), but perhaps that is only because no one ever goes any further than to mention the mere existence of other products.
Seems like anybody who posted about non-Zaino products in the (rather inaccurately named)Waxes and Polishes forum lost interest, for one reason or another.
So much so that it is a now basically a forum for Zaino users to post links to pictures of their cars (see above, for example)....rather than a forum to discuss car care products and procedures. The cars are very nice, but it has a limited interest for those of us who would prefer a real forum for discussion.
And who is going to post about the merits of any other product, or ask about a product, when the only respose you get is: "everyone says it is nowhere near as good as Zaino" or "carnauba is just hype" (?!?), etc, etc.
Yet I have seen many messages posted on this forum (in the recent past) or other forums, by experienced individuals (not shills) who have used Zaino products, and claim to have gotten as good or better results with other products (Blitz wax, P21s wax, or Klasse, for example)
As I stated on this forum earlier, this whole business of car detailing and waxes/protectants is a very inaccurate "science". With the notable exception of Zymol, I have yet to see any manufacturers of these products even list the ingredients in their "elixirs" in any but the vaguest terms(no doubt they are all "exclusive, secret formulae".)
Combine that with the subjective nature of "what looks good", and the differing needs of people and their cars, and it is hard for me to take seriously the statements of anyone who claims to have an absolute answer on a subject like "car wax".
Not sure that politely asking people to stay on the topic (which is clearly stated in the list, and at the top of each page) should be construed as "lambasting".
Particularly when there is a whole other topic, with a very generalized title, that is in fact, virtually monopolized by the pictures and "Gospel" of the "Absolute Truth", for those who are so inclined.
Obviously there is freedom of speech, as someone asserted earlier. I would tend to think of posting "on-topic" in usenet or internet forums as more of a "gentleman's (sorry, "gentleperson's) agreement", than anything else.
I like Edmunds forums, but anymore when I want to find out objective information about detailing products or procedures, I find myself going to one of the the other forums on the net, like AudiWorld or the BMW forums, or even commercial sites, in order to get such info.
The point is that everyone, you included, is free to post their personal "absolute answer on a subject like 'car wax'". There just is no reason to blow someone out of this topic, or the other one, for having a different "absolute answer". I am not accusing you specifically of doing that, I am speaking to everyone here in general.
"Not sure that politely asking people to stay on the topic (which is clearly stated in the list, and at the top of each page) should be construed as 'lambasting'."
I did not construe it as lambasting, and I did not say that, I only used that term speaking of what went on a long time ago in the Waxes and Polishes topic.
I'm only suggesting that we calm down, speak of our own experiences, and let others draw their own conclusions.
Pat Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
There were other wax/polish topics here in the past. If you have been a long time lurker in these topics, you would know that the "battle" erupted when some newcomer showed up and started giving Stone Age tips. I don't believe the Zaino enthusiasts started any war. They may have finished it, but they didn't start it. That's my opinion. Whatever the cause, I'm glad it's over because we're here because we like clean, shiny cars and look to others for help or advice on what they have done or not done to keep their cars that way.
"but perhaps that is only because no one ever goes any further than to mention the mere existence of other products."
I don't think this is true at all. I think many posters have gone beyond the- I use Nu-Finish, I use Turtle Wax, I use Zymol etc. People have explained why they like one over the other. While some people love to jump on others for their wax/polish of choice, I think the bottom line is sharing OUR experiences.
What's work or a chore for one person, isn't necessarily so for another. Some people think a once a year wax job is enough. Fine. Who am I to attack them for that belief? Just because I would disagree with them, doesn't make me the bad guy. It all depends on your perspective and where you're coming from. I would assume, maybe wrongly so, that if you're participating in a wax/polish discussion forum, that you want your car to look good. Am I way off base here?
It's like people saying in the 300M topic that their 300 is the "quietest" car that they have ever owned. That may be. It ALL depends on WHAT they were driving BEFORE they got the 300. If they had a Chevette, then YES, the 300 would be like being in a soundproof room. If you owned something equal to or better then the 300, then that comment wouldn't be true. My 300 is not quieter then my 96 Buick Riviera was. I don't get all bent out of shape if someone thinks their 300M is quiet.
"So much so that it is a now basically a forum for Zaino users to post links to pictures of their cars (see above, for example)....rather than a forum to discuss car care products and procedures. The cars are very nice, but it has a limited interest for those of us who would prefer a real forum for discussion."
This isn't so at all. If you've been a lurker here from the beginning, then you haven't read all the messages. People do discuss car care products and procedures and what to do and what not to do and what tips worked for them and what didn't. As for my pictures- don't you believe that a picture is worth a thousand words? What you see is what you get. Nothing more, nothing less.
Personally, I really don't care what wax/polish anyone uses on their cars. I come to these forums to share MY experiences with what I use. Over the past 40 years or so, I have used MANY different polishes/waxes on my cars. Some great, some good, some lousy. It always seemed that no matter what I used, the results never lasted very long. Yes, they looked great when I was finished, but they soon lost that brilliant shine. Not so anymore.
"Combine that with the subjective nature of "what looks good", and the differing needs of people and their cars, and it is hard for me to take seriously the statements of anyone who claims to have an absolute answer on a subject like "car wax"."
Isn't most of what is said in ANY of these topics "subjective"? If you feel that way, then you don't believe what anyone says in any of the topics. Like I said above- someone says their 300 is the quietest car they have ever owned. That's subjective. I don't agree. I use MY life experience with cars to ignore that comment and move on. I don't label that person a nut or a charlatan because I think he's wrong.
Well, I hope you find the wax/polish that works for you. I know what my car looks like and I'm satisfied. Good luck.
I have seen two items in the auto parts stores that I have never used before. Liquid Glass and a product called Astroshield. They claim to last a long time and claim a good shine. I was thinking of claying then using one of these products. Does anyone have experience using one of these products or can someone offer some explanation as to what makes these products different from the standard products that are for sale. Thanks in advance
I cleaned my windshield with Rain X five days ago. Today it rained. When my wiper blades went back and forth, hazed over streaks appeared. As soon as the blades stopped, the streaks went away. Is there a trick to this product that I missed (I just wiped on then off with a clean cotton cloth) - or - is this product less than great? Would love the opinion of others that have used it.
Thanks for the picture - your car looks great. Glad you didn't have a hazing problem because I have ordered the (dreaded Z word) and plan to try it for the first time this week-end if the above-mentioned rain stops!
I have been using it on and off for a while, but don't seem to recall any of the streaking you mention. 1. Be sure the window is REALLY clean first, use Windex, etc. 2. Put on 2 layers of Rain X, rubbing it in as if it were car wax in small circular motions. Let it haze over. 3. Wipe it down well with a DAMP towel to remove the excess.
Maybe your wiper blades are worn? Anwyay, if you go fast enough the rain runs off, so you don't need wipers! LOL
Better a partner in shine, then a partner in crime! LOL......
I just don't get why people ARGUE over wax/polish! The only way to really know about a product is to use it yourself! Everyone's situation is different. Some people live in hot, dry places. Some in damp, wet climes. Some are located in high acid rain areas like I am. Some people leave their car outside 24/7. Some garage it every night like I do. People's results will vary.
As soon as the warm weather gets here, I'll be cleaning another car that's outside 24/7 and hasn't been waxed in years. I'll take some before and after pictures. This car will have to be clayed because it's 6 years old. It does go through the cloth strip car wash when the need arises, but that's about it.
I apply it similarly to the way described by newwestd above and am very happy with it. The other key is applying it regularly. I try to do it every time I wash and if it is a while between washes, I clean the windshield good and do it by itself.
FWIW, I have been using it for years but have decided to use it on the side and back windows and NOT on the windshield. I have found that the wipers do a much better job clearing the glass without RainX.
Yeah, I use rain x as well. The problem is removing it. IT is very difficult to buff the rain x off the windows. IF you miss some, you are looking at the possibility of some serious streaks. However, like the others have stated, it comes off much better when you use a damp towel.
Thanks to all for the Rain X input. I have now completely Windexed the window and reapplied the Rain X. My Rain X was in a spray bottle so I did not have to wipe it on, but sprayed it on and wiped it off with clean towels. I hope this works - will let you all know after the next rain
I just bought my truck last week. The salesman told me to wait 6 months before I wax it.(It was built 2/29/00) Is this right? Also, what is a good non-abraisive wax to use. I seems most have a slight polishing property to them.
jescop - fastdriver is very right! The adage about waiting went out many years ago when the car paints started changing to the new fast-drying kinds that are baked dry. In the 60's and 70's this was correct, but no longer.
If you don't protect right away, all sorts of horrible stuff can happen to your paint that you will never get out. Protect it NOW!
Thanks for the info fastdriver and newwestd. What you said is pretty much what I thought, but you try to follow the deallers advice. I need a little warmer weather here in Minnesota, but I want to wax it on my first 65 degree day. Should be soon... I hope!
Please consider doing the real process, including a wash with Dawn to remove any grease and old wax, claying to remove impurities and pollutants (yes, even on a new car)and to super smooth the paint, and then a good polish with the wax or polymer of your choice. Also, wash and polish your new car regularly (please excuse me if you know all this). It won't be a chore and you car will always look good!
You're welcome. Depending on what you use, it's a breeze to keep that shine. I did my car yesterday. It was 35 degrees when I started and only went up to 40 while I was outside. I did mine in the sun because it was warmer. The stuff I used is capable of being used at these temps. I thought my car looked great in the pics that I posted several messages back, but it looks 10 times better now!
Just for everyone's information, Bruce and I have decided that "Waxes and Polishes" is indeed an inaccurate name for a topic that concentrates primarily on only one line of products. Since "Waxes and Polishes Part III" had gone over 500 posts, it was time to freeze it and start a new one. So Bruce has created "Zaino Car Care Experiences" for folks to discuss all of their Zaino products and issues.
I won't post a link, but I just thought you folks might like to know that there is now an "official" Zaino topic!
Pardon the interruption, and please continue discussing any and all other wax and car care products....
;->
Pat Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
This is a product made by the same people who make the "Duralube" oil additive. It is an "as seen on TV", "infomercial" type of product, and for those two reasons, I would tend to stay away from it. Just my 2 cents.
For the same price, or less, you could get products by Meguiars or 3M, among others, that have a better reputation, and likely would give you better results. Search through the various archived topics on this website relating to "waxes", for other product recommendations that might meet your needs.
If you should still decide you want to try "Gloshield", I would tell you to shop around at the type of stores that sell overstocked merchandise. Often these types of "infomercial" products can be found at very low prices.
Thanks for your thoughts on "Glo Shield". I bought a bottle of "Polyglycoat" 3 years ago and used it on a new 97 black Bonneville. It has been shining and protecting ever since (only applied once). I have been so impressed with it that I tried to use it last week on a 2000 black DTS. However, the "Polyglycoat" has dried up and I can no longer find them in stores. So I started to look for another multi-year polymer based polish and found this "Glo Shield" which is advertised to last 3 years. Costs me only $6.00. Any other thoughts?
I have no idea what was in Polyglycoat, but I toured their factory in Puerto Rico once. It cost them about 7.5 cents per application. It is a tremendous moneymaker and from the name, I would assume it was just a polymer sealant like many others now on the market. NOTHING LASTS FOR THREE YEARS. Maybe your standards are different than most, but Consumer Reports said that NuFinish was the longest lasting and they didn't claim three years. If you are serious, look through the various sites and you can make a decision, but nothing lasts for three years. You might as well be one of those trying to tell us that he NEVER washes or waxes a car and it still looks as good as new. Well, it probably didn't look all that good when new, then. Try that "wax", you already have it. If you don't like it, you certainly aren't going to go broke for having bought it.
I also did not believe Polyglycoat's claim when I first bought the stuff because it claims to last 4 years (on the box). However, it is still doing its job 3 years later. I have been driving, washing, and waxing cars (all American made) for 30 years now. So I do know whether or not the stuff is still on the car doing its job. By the way, the 97 Bonneville has been our family's primary car (work, fun, vacation, etc.). The reason I posted the Glo Shield (another polymer based product) question was that it does not say anything about being safe on clear coat and the 800 number was not helpful at all.
Comments
Anyone ever heard about Finish First or had experience with it?
Comments please.
Prior to my current use of Meguiars, I used Mother's Calif Gold. It did a good job for shine, but found it did not last. So I tried and switched to Meguiars Gold Class, which is what i currently use. It provides great shine, especially when you use the body scrub first (body scrub 2 times per year). However, I too, with the environment my car is subject too (salt and sand in winter, parked outside all day during week, no industrial fallout known, and wash once per week in summer, and once every two or three in winter) found that Meguiars "beading characteristics" lasted longer than the Mothers, but not as long as I would like.
To the point. These posts are extremely informative but only you can judge how a wax ranks with other products you have used. If you're happy with the wax you use, stick with it. If you're not, or you would like to try something better, explore on your own. If cost is a factor, use up the wax you have and when done, try another product.
Personally,I've read the reviews on Zaino, and I figure the only way I will know if it is a better product than Meguiars, IN MY SITUATION, is to try it. I just purchased a 00 Subaru Outback and I want to keep it looking top notch. So, I don't mind putting a few extra $$ into a better wax. I will be placing my order for Zaino in short notice.
Pat
Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
I have been fanatically maintaining cars for nearly 30 years, and I believed that I knew every way to coax a great, long-lasting shine out of a car finish, and have been very proud of my results. I have been very happy with Meguiar's, Wax Shoppe and 3M products, especially with proper preparation (Try using a wash with Dawn and claying beofre waxing instead of the body scrub or glaze that may remove paint to get smooth).
After participating in this and other forums for a year, I decided to try Zaino on one of our cars last weekend. It was very easy to use as the car was already quite smooth from the claying last wax job, and the resulting shine is simply an order of magnitude better than ANY wax I have tried. Even neighbors driving down the street were gawking at the car (a 3-year old Accord, un-garaged).
NOW - how will it last? Will it offer the protection we expect? Will it stay glass-shiny? I will be watching it carefully and, I hope, objectively, and will let you all know. If it works, I am certainly open to trying something different.
Your host, Bruce
Again, I am sure that everyone here is interested in getting the best possible shine and durability for their car finishes.
As an avowed skeptic, I am now testing the theory in an objective manner, so I can offer at least some closure to the "what is better?" issue. Is there anyone here that would not change to using earwax, camel dung or "Joe's Magic Paint Elixir" if it REALLY gave them a better shine and more protection? I certainly have tried worse in the past 30 years!
If you are truly not interested in hearing the results about a possible improvement, OR proof that the "zealots" are full of BS, then I'll be sure not to mention it again.
It is true that fifteen to eighteen months ago the "Waxes and Polishes" topic got out of hand in posts that pretty much lambasted folks who did not want to use Zaino. That is when the precedent to this topic was created.
However, the posters involved have since moved on. Since then, in my observation, the anti-Zaino posters in this topic are far more reactive to the mention of "Z" than the posters in Waxes and Polishes are to the mention of any other products.
My suspicion is that some folks over here were so turned off - perhaps rightfully so - during that period well over a YEAR ago, that they have not checked back in that topic to see how things have developed.
Yes, there are still many people posting there who love their Zaino. BUT, no one is being attacked for not sharing the same opinion.
OTOH, a mention of Zaino over here does indeed invite an intense reaction.
I think it's time we all give it a rest. We are all different, we all choose what we think is the best, by whatever criteria we find important. We are all here to share opinions and learn from others' opinions. If we see a post/opinion we don't care for, we can certainly just move on to the next post.
I'm not suggesting that this topic become the place to discuss Zaino; it has been well established that product belongs in the Waxes and Polishes topic. But I AM suggesting that if someone is offering what he or she believes to be an objective opinion, there is no reason to attack that poster for being in the wrong place.
My several-more-than-two-cents worth. :-)
Pat
Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
These pics were taken on Feb. 21 right after I came out of the touchless car wash and wiped off the car. My car is 21 months old, driven everyday in all kinds of weather and garaged at night. I think it looks pretty good for the winter. You should see what it looks like in the warmer weather! LOL...
Click on the dirty pics first at the bottom.
http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/Flats/7501/feb_21/
Enjoy.
fastdriver
Terry
I've heard about the peanut butter method too for those pesky, textured plastic parts with wax residue. I've never tried it personally, but I trust the person who recommended it.
fastdriver
It's a shame if a few ruin it for the rest, as very valuable information may go unused. However, to flatly deny something potentially very beneficial without trying it is the mark of a fool. I guess there will always be those that decry modern advancements.
When I get a little further along in my testing, I will let the forum know. If anyone who really wants the best for their car wants to know the results they can email me.
Seems like anybody who posted about non-Zaino products in the (rather inaccurately named)Waxes and Polishes forum lost interest, for one reason or another.
So much so that it is a now basically a forum for Zaino users to post links to pictures of their cars (see above, for example)....rather than a forum to discuss car care products and procedures. The cars are very nice, but it has a limited interest for those of us who would prefer a real forum for discussion.
And who is going to post about the merits of any other product, or ask about a product, when the only respose you get is: "everyone says it is nowhere near as good as Zaino" or "carnauba is just hype" (?!?), etc, etc.
Yet I have seen many messages posted on this forum (in the recent past) or other forums, by experienced individuals (not shills) who have used Zaino products, and claim to have gotten as good or better results with other products (Blitz wax, P21s wax, or Klasse, for example)
As I stated on this forum earlier, this whole business of car detailing and waxes/protectants is a very inaccurate "science". With the notable exception of Zymol, I have yet to see any manufacturers of these products even list the ingredients in their "elixirs" in any but the vaguest terms(no doubt they are all "exclusive, secret formulae".)
Combine that with the subjective nature of "what looks good", and the differing needs of people and their cars, and it is hard for me to take seriously the statements of anyone who claims to have an absolute answer on a subject like "car wax".
Not sure that politely asking people to stay on the topic (which is clearly stated in the list, and at the top of each page) should be construed as "lambasting".
Particularly when there is a whole other topic, with a very generalized title, that is in fact, virtually monopolized by the pictures and "Gospel" of the "Absolute Truth", for those who are so inclined.
Obviously there is freedom of speech, as someone asserted earlier. I would tend to think of posting "on-topic" in usenet or internet forums as more of a "gentleman's (sorry, "gentleperson's) agreement", than anything else.
I like Edmunds forums, but anymore when I want to find out objective information about detailing products or procedures, I find myself going to one of the the other forums on the net, like AudiWorld or the BMW forums, or even commercial sites, in order to get such info.
"Not sure that politely asking people to stay on the topic (which is clearly stated in the list, and at the top of each page) should be construed as 'lambasting'."
I did not construe it as lambasting, and I did not say that, I only used that term speaking of what went on a long time ago in the Waxes and Polishes topic.
I'm only suggesting that we calm down, speak of our own experiences, and let others draw their own conclusions.
Pat
Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
I used the "Z" product and did not experience any hazing and there seemed to be a nice shine.
Here is a photo of my car.
It was taken with a crappy disposable camera, but you can still see a nice shine on the side of the car.
There were other wax/polish topics here in the past. If you have been a long time lurker in these topics, you would know that the "battle" erupted when some newcomer showed up and started giving Stone Age tips. I don't believe the Zaino enthusiasts started any war. They may have finished it, but they didn't start it. That's my opinion. Whatever the cause, I'm glad it's over because we're here because we like clean, shiny cars and look to others for help or advice on what they have done or not done to keep their cars that way.
"but perhaps that is only because no one ever goes any further than to mention the mere existence of other products."
I don't think this is true at all. I think many posters have gone beyond the- I use Nu-Finish, I use Turtle Wax, I use Zymol etc. People have explained why they like one over the other. While some people love to jump on others for their wax/polish of choice, I think the bottom line is sharing OUR experiences.
What's work or a chore for one person, isn't necessarily so for another. Some people think a once a year wax job is enough. Fine. Who am I to attack them for that belief? Just because I would disagree with them, doesn't make me the bad guy. It all depends on your perspective and where you're coming from. I would assume, maybe wrongly so, that if you're participating in a wax/polish discussion forum, that you want your car to look good. Am I way off base here?
It's like people saying in the 300M topic that their 300 is the "quietest" car that they have ever owned. That may be. It ALL depends on WHAT they were driving BEFORE they got the 300. If they had a Chevette, then YES, the 300 would be like being in a soundproof room. If you owned something equal to or better then the 300, then that comment wouldn't be true. My 300 is not quieter then my 96 Buick Riviera was. I don't get all bent out of shape if someone thinks their 300M is quiet.
"So much so that it is a now basically a forum for
Zaino users to post links to pictures of their cars (see above, for example)....rather than a forum to discuss car care products and procedures. The cars are very nice, but it has a limited interest for those of us who would prefer a real forum for discussion."
This isn't so at all. If you've been a lurker here from the beginning, then you haven't read all the messages. People do discuss car care products and procedures and what to do and what not to do and what tips worked for them and what didn't. As for my pictures- don't you believe that a picture is worth a thousand words? What you see is what you get. Nothing more, nothing less.
Personally, I really don't care what wax/polish anyone uses on their cars. I come to these forums to share MY experiences with what I use. Over the past 40 years or so, I have used MANY different polishes/waxes on my cars. Some great, some good, some lousy. It always seemed that no matter what I used, the results never lasted very long. Yes, they looked great when I was finished, but they soon lost that brilliant shine. Not so anymore.
"Combine that with the subjective nature of "what
looks good", and the differing needs of people and
their cars, and it is hard for me to take seriously the statements of anyone who claims to have an absolute answer on a subject like "car wax"."
Isn't most of what is said in ANY of these topics "subjective"? If you feel that way, then you don't believe what anyone says in any of the topics. Like I said above- someone says their 300 is the quietest car they have ever owned. That's subjective. I don't agree. I use MY life experience with cars to ignore that comment and move on. I don't label that person a nut or a charlatan because I think he's wrong.
Well, I hope you find the wax/polish that works for you. I know what my car looks like and I'm satisfied. Good luck.
fastdriver
Liquid Glass and a product called Astroshield.
They claim to last a long time and claim a good shine.
I was thinking of claying then using one of these products.
Does anyone have experience using one of these products or can someone offer some explanation as to what makes these products different from the standard products that are for sale.
Thanks in advance
Fastdriver--I consider you one of my "partners in shine".
jster--you render me speechless (which is a difficult feat). Don't think I have the energy to respond.
1. Be sure the window is REALLY clean first, use Windex, etc.
2. Put on 2 layers of Rain X, rubbing it in as if it were car wax in small circular motions. Let it haze over.
3. Wipe it down well with a DAMP towel to remove the excess.
Maybe your wiper blades are worn? Anwyay, if you go fast enough the rain runs off, so you don't need wipers! LOL
Better a partner in shine, then a partner in crime! LOL......
I just don't get why people ARGUE over wax/polish! The only way to really know about a product is to use it yourself! Everyone's situation is different. Some people live in hot, dry places. Some in damp, wet climes. Some are located in high acid rain areas like I am. Some people leave their car outside 24/7. Some garage it every night like I do. People's results will vary.
As soon as the warm weather gets here, I'll be cleaning another car that's outside 24/7 and hasn't been waxed in years. I'll take some before and after pictures. This car will have to be clayed because it's 6 years old. It does go through the cloth strip car wash when the need arises, but that's about it.
fastdriver
Terry
Dave
Kevin
Good Luck!
Your salesman is WRONG!!! Wax as soon as possible!! As for a good non-abrasive wax that I like, look at this 21 month old car.
http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/Flats/7501/Feb.html OR here-
http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/Flats/7501/feb_21/
Everyone has their own preferences. Use what you think will fit your schedule.
fastdriver
fastdriver is very right! The adage about waiting went out many years ago when the car paints started changing to the new fast-drying kinds that are baked dry. In the 60's and 70's this was correct, but no longer.
If you don't protect right away, all sorts of horrible stuff can happen to your paint that you will never get out. Protect it NOW!
What you said is pretty much what I thought,
but you try to follow the deallers advice.
I need a little warmer weather here in Minnesota,
but I want to wax it on my first 65 degree day.
Should be soon... I hope!
Please consider doing the real process, including a wash with Dawn to remove any grease and old wax, claying to remove impurities and pollutants (yes, even on a new car)and to super smooth the paint, and then a good polish with the wax or polymer of your choice. Also, wash and polish your new car regularly (please excuse me if you know all this). It won't be a chore and you car will always look good!
Enjoy!
You're welcome. Depending on what you use, it's a breeze to keep that shine. I did my car yesterday. It was 35 degrees when I started and only went up to 40 while I was outside. I did mine in the sun because it was warmer. The stuff I used is capable of being used at these temps. I thought my car looked great in the pics that I posted several messages back, but it looks 10 times better now!
Good luck.
fastdriver
I won't post a link, but I just thought you folks might like to know that there is now an "official" Zaino topic!
Pardon the interruption, and please continue discussing any and all other wax and car care products....
;->
Pat
Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
For the same price, or less, you could get products by Meguiars or 3M, among others, that have a better reputation, and likely would give you better results. Search through the various archived topics on this website relating to "waxes", for other product recommendations that might meet your needs.
If you should still decide you want to try "Gloshield", I would tell you to shop around at the type of stores that sell overstocked merchandise. Often these types of "infomercial" products can be found at very low prices.
Thanks. I think most of us "regulars" have already seen it and posted there.
We like to see what the other half is doing here. ;-))
fastdriver
Thanks for your thoughts on "Glo Shield". I bought a bottle of "Polyglycoat" 3 years ago and used it on a new 97 black Bonneville. It has been shining and protecting ever since (only applied once). I have been so impressed with it that I tried to use it last week on a 2000 black DTS. However, the "Polyglycoat" has dried up and I can no longer find them in stores. So I started to look for another multi-year polymer based polish and found this "Glo Shield" which is advertised to last 3 years. Costs me only $6.00. Any other thoughts?
I also did not believe Polyglycoat's claim when I first bought the stuff because it claims to last 4 years (on the box). However, it is still doing its job 3 years later. I have been driving, washing, and waxing cars (all American made) for 30 years now. So I do know whether or not the stuff is still on the car doing its job. By the way, the 97 Bonneville has been our family's primary car (work, fun, vacation, etc.). The reason I posted the Glo Shield (another polymer based product) question was that it does not say anything about being safe on clear coat and the 800 number was not helpful at all.