Just taken delivery of our Fabia II Monte Carlo and decided beforehand to try applying a PDI Lifeshine kit to it myself (from fleebay so hopefully not a fake with any old rubbish in it ). Not been overly impressed by the two dealer applications of the stuff on previous cars, with noticeable swirls and light scratches from a buffer that must have seen a thousand cars before :S

First thing of note was the kit itself, no mention of applying the sealant by machine, instead two differing coloured microfibre cloths were provided for application and final buffing up. The car I'd asked the dealer not to polish much to their amusement and although I couldn't say for sure I think they did leave it alone in regard to polish anyway.

To start I gave the car a wash using a clean noodle wash mit and the two bucket method but with plain water. The paintwork appear pretty unblemished apart from the odd dark mark here and there, which in the main I managed to easily remove with Autoglym's tar remover. However a very small mark on the bonnet and particles on the rear bumper top appeared less willing to be shifted. So although I hate using them I deployed the clay bar, which sorted the bumper but not the bonnet. Despite being as careful as possible and following the instructions to the letter, to some extent I wish I'd left the bar in it's box, as in street lighting you can see light scratches on the bumper and a small spot of haze on the bonnet (but only if you look for it)

Otherwise the Autoglym kit appeared to go on a treat, used the three products of body and glass sealant plus an interior fabric protector. This also revealed another paint blemish in the form of an unusual scuff in the paint at the top of the C pillar on the offside, however being white it's well hidden. Whole process took about 5 hours including a break for lunch and cost me £13, rather than £150 to £300 quoted by some dealers and apart from the clay bar mistake a much better job if I do say so myself.

TP

I am sure that many people find themselves in your situation and it's a case of let the dealer do it, get a detailer to do it or do it yourself.

What clay did you use as there are different grades available that might be the reason why you marred the paint? Also if the surface wasn't clean enough to start with you will have induced marring with the claying process.....

Got to be happy with the saving there buddy. Clay can be a bit of a nightmare but once you get au fait with it it's the best bit of kit in the arsenal IMHO. Enjoy the fruits of your labour mate!