Hi everybody!

The other day, as I was driving, I noticed this weird smudge near the bottom of the drivers' side window. It looks like when somebody breathes on it and leaves a fog mark. But this thing doesn't disappear. Instead, I've tried washing the car and using windex, but the stuff just stays there. If I run my finger over it, it's perfectly smooth.

After washing the car, I noticed that there is a big splotch of the stuff on my drivers' side door, as well. Any suggestions as to what it could be and how to get it off? It is clear and dull, and (as I mentioned before) perfectly smooth.

 

It might be an area where some kind of mild abrasive has rubbed on it. Try to use a power buffer and some polishing compound or scratch and swirl remover on those spots. It might just need to have the "shine" buffed back in.

 

agree with xviper.
i always go least aggressive to more aggressive- so for the glass, i would first use an auto glass cleaner (not windex)- then if no luck, a glass polish - autoglym glass polish is an example of a glass polish. that should do it with enough elbow grease... or if you have a machine you might want to try it.
for the body, i would first try a paint cleaner, then a swirl remover if you need to, and then if that doesnt do it, a slightly more aggressive compound.

 

I know this might sound like a silly question, but do you think hitting the area with a clay bar would be best to try first? I'm a little apprehensive about using anything abrasive on the paint.

Wanabe - thanks for the tip on Autoglym. I will have to go find some of that stuff. Hopefully an auto shop around here carries it... I've never seen it.

 

I would hit it with a clay bar, polish, wax....Christina it's time for you to detail your car anyways.

 

Joon, you're so right. The S is crying for some attention. I wonder if it can wait til Wash & Wax Day...

 

I just remembered an old glass polishing trick that I have recommended before:
Get some cleanser called "Bon Ami". Use it dry. Sprinkle it onto a lint free cloth and manually buff the glass. Repeat a couple times if necessary. When done, wash as usual.

 

where can i get bon ami locally? i think scratched my windshield with the ice scraper. one scratch is right in my line of view which is annoying. wannna polish it out.

i think you mentioned cornstarch too. does that really work?>