Tips for cleaning hard water spots from satin paint?

[Eric Hahl]

Anyone know the proper way to clean hard water spots from satin car paint?

A friend of mine bought a newer Challenger. The dealership washed it the night before and the water drops froze overnight. When it warmed up he tried to clean the spots but failed.

Any tips on cleaning these off without damaging the satin finish?

[Eric Hahl]

Mr. Clean magic eraser?

[HobieMarty]

Maybe try a clay bar, it won't be rough on the paint.

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[speeder]

Sounds like the dealer's problem, the way I'm reading it(?)

[john70t]

Hard water is usually calcium.

Test a 'cleaner wax' on a spot out of the way with a soft cloth.
I prefer Mothers over Meguires.
That's worked well before. Each spot may take 30 seconds to disappear. Go easy.
Go over that with the regular full "carnuba wax" after.

Start with clean paint.

[Eric Hahl]

Originally Posted by speeder

Sounds like the dealer's problem, the way I'm reading it(?)

It is, he just wanted to try himself before getting a re-paint or correction by them.

[Eric Hahl]

Originally Posted by HobieMarty

Maybe try a clay bar, it won't be rough on the paint.

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I searched this on the interwebs...seems like the consensus is no on that idea as it will slightly polish the satin.

[Eric Hahl]

Originally Posted by john70t

Hard water is usually calcium. A light vinegar solution might do it. Test an area. Rinse immediately.

Or test a 'cleaner wax' on a spot out of the way with a soft cloth. It probably is acidic. That's worked for me before.
Go over that with regular full carnuba.

I think he has tried this. Will let him know though, thanks. Of course, no real, out-of-the-way areas on the hood. Only the hood, roof, and trunk lid are satin.

[Tobra]

Found this on a Challenger forum

Dodge posted advice on how to care for the satin paint finish on the Demon (see below).

The main points to remember, on any satin paint job, are as follows:

1. Only hand wash.
2. Do not use wax, detail spray, polish or glaze.
3. Do not use terry cloth or paper towels.
4. Lightly wipe the surface in forward and backward motions- not circular.

Don't see how you are going to fix water spots on that sort of finish, vinegar maybe?

[Eric Hahl]

Thanks all.