FAQs

Dear Customers, 

All FAQ's here deal with the Do It yourself products from Meguiars.  If you have questions regarding our professional/detailer  products or would like to

use Meguiar's products at your car care center please contact us at

 

HYPERCOAT ENTERPRISES PTE LTD
1 Loyang Way 6
507076 Singapore
Tel          : (65) 6542 8989
Fax         : (65) 6542 3577
Email     : sales.consumer@hypercoat.com.sg 

 

 

CONSUMER PRODUCTS FAQ

A.     WASH FAQ

 

1.      What are the differences in your washes?

 

All of our washes will safely remove loose contaminants without stripping away vital wax protection or drying out the finish.  We offer a variety of washes to ensure each user will have there needs fulfilled.

 

 

2.      What are the benefits of using a Wash Mitt?

 

It’s the washing process that inflicts most ‘swirls’ or light circular scratches to your paint. This is because tiny particles can get trapped between the face of a sponge and the paint surface. By hosing down the paint work first and using a wash mitt with a deep pile, these particles will be absorbed into the pile and will consequently do a lot less damage to your paint. Also using a grit guard in the bottom of your bucket to remove any loose dirt from the mitt will help.

 

3.     Should I re-wax after every wash?

 

Not if you use a good quality car wash shampoo. All Meguiar’s shampoos will safely remove traffic film and contaminants without damaging the protective wax coating. Harsher detergents will strip polish and wax from the paint and significantly reduce the life of the wax protection.

 

 

B.     CLEAN / SURFACE PREP FAQ

 

 

1. Do you have a product that removes scratches?

We have several products, which remove scratches.  These include light hand applied cleaner / polishes all the way to heavy machine applied compounds.  Depending on the severity of the scratch, we have the right product for that situation.

 

Whether you are working by hand, orbital or DA Polisher, swirls and scratches can be removed easily using a clear coat safe "paint cleaner" like Meguiar's Ultimate Compound. Never use harsh traditional style compounds, as they can damage / haze a modern clear coat finish.

 

2. What is the difference between a polish and a cleaner?

Cleaner – The removal of loose contaminants and/or stubborn defects washing did not remove.

Polish – The creation of brilliant high gloss.

 

3. How are the Clay Bar and a cleaner different?

A clay bar is designed to remove above surface contaminants.

A “liquid” cleaner is designed to remove below surface defects

Both of these products fall into the category of cleaners, they are just different styles designed to remove different types of surface conditions.

 

4. What is an above surface contaminant?

An above surface contaminant is something that falls onto the surface and has not yet penetrated the topcoat.  It can be loose or bonded. Fresh bird droppings, sap, tar, dust, road film are all examples of above surface contaminants

 

5. What is a below surface defect?

A below surface defect is something which has penetrated the topcoat.  Scratches, oxidation, swirls, stains are all examples of “defect”.

 

6.          How do i remove water spots?

The best solution for removing water spots on paint and even on glass is Meguiar's Water Sport Remover. To avoid water spots, always wash and dry your car in the shade and make sure the surface is cool to the touch.

 

       7.           What do I need to do to clean/prep my paint before waxing?

Prior to waxing, wash and dry your car thoroughly, then inspect the surface by using your eyes and hands.  If the finish feels rough, Meguiar's Smooth Surface Clay Kit will be the best solution prior to waxing.  If the finish has swirls, oxidation and/or stains, Meguiar's Ultimate Compound will be the best choice prior to waxing. In some extreme cases, a car may need both Smooth Surface Clay Kit AND Ultimate Compound prior to waxing.

 

       8.        What should I use to clean my wheels?

 

Our “Hot Rims” Wheel Cleaner is safe to use on all wheel types. This includes polished alloys, split rims and chrome finishes (i.e. all the types that other wheel cleaners tell you to avoid). Remember that wheels should be cool during application and rinsed thoroughly. The product may need to be agitated with a brush to remove stubborn stains and ground in brake dust.

 

 

C.       POLISH FAQ

 

1. What is the difference between a Meguiar’s Polish and a Meguiar’s Wax?

Polish - The creation of brilliant high-gloss

Wax - The preservation of brilliant high-gloss

Unlike a wax, a “pure” polish or “cleaner/polish” does not have the ability to protect the surface and keep that gloss for an extended amount of time.  Anytime you polish, it is recommended to follow with a wax protectant for maximum preservation of gloss. 

A pure Meguiar’s polish is a blend of oils that are absorbed by the paint in the same way your skin would absorb a moisturiser. The polishing oils will create a deep wet-look gloss but will offer no protection. This gloss can be sealed and your paint protected with the application of a wax.

 

      2.           Should I polish every time I wax?

 

There is no need to polish every time you wax.  However, depending on your individual goals, polishing your vehicle every time is certainly an option.

 

 

      3.           How do I remove swirl marks?

 

Swirl marks can be very easy or difficult to remove.  In order to remove these, you’ll need to remove enough paint to get to the bottom of the defect.  Sometimes this can be done by hand and sometimes you’ll need a rotary machine and sometimes-even sandpaper is needed.  Our goal is to always use the least aggressive method as possible and then work your way down until the defect is removed.  Remember to always follow with a polish to restore a brilliant high gloss, and then apply a wax protection if needed.

 

• Cobweb-effect, also called spider web scratches, car wash scratches, towel scratches etc.

• Buffer Swirl or Holograms

Cob Web Effect

Cobweb-effect is the term Meguiar’s uses to describe the visual appearance of the thousands, and even hundreds of thousands of tiny scratches inflicted into your car’s finish through normal, everyday wear and tear.

This includes :

• Improper washing techniques.  Such as working from the bottom up potential dragging dirt that has accumulated on the bottom parts of the car to the cleaner upper section of the car.

• Using tatty, worn, dirty, or scratchy wash mitts, sponges, drying towels etc.  It doesn’t take much to inflict a scratch in today’s modern clear coat finishes; every chance you have to prevent inflicting scratches should be utilized.

• Automatic car washes.  Many automatic car washes still rely on spinning nylon bristle brushes to scrub your car clean.  While these brushes may clean really well, they also instill many unnecessary scratches.  Remember this also; any automatic car wash system that relies on some type of material that comes into direct contact with your car’s finish has the potential to instill scratches.  You see it doesn’t matter how soft or state of the art their system is, if the car or truck before you was 4-wheel drive dirty, the dirt removed from their finish can potentially still be in the system, (brushes, or what have you), whereupon it will be rubbed across your car’s finish.  Automatic car washes are usually not recommended if you want to keep your finish scratch-free.

• Hand Car Washes.  Hand car washes while generally speaking are much safer as far as quality goes, you still have to insure the employees are doing quality work and have been trained how to best wash a car without instilling scratches.  As a standard rule, anytime a wash mitt is dropped to the ground, it should not be returned to use but instead should be either discarded or cleaned.

To avoid the cobweb-effect type swirls and scratches, thoroughly wash all dirt particles from your finish before applying polish or wax.  Always use a microfiber polishing cloth like the Meguiar’s Supreme Shine Microfibre Towel, terry cloth towel for removing cleaners, polishes and waxes.  Microfiber polishing cloths and terry cloth towels have a "nap", (the little cotton loops), which draw and trap abrasive particles or contaminants on the surface, up into the towel instead of allowing them to scratch the sensitive paint.  Avoid taking your car to car washes if possible and wash your own car using premium quality wash mitts, car wash solutions and follow by drying your car using only premium quality chamois, 100% cotton towels, or Meguiar’s new Water Magnet Microfiber Drying Towel.

 

 

D.        WAX / PROTECT

 

 

     1.     What is the best wax to protect my new car?

 

   If you are looking for "best protection", then an advanced synthetic polymer product like Meguiar's Ultimate Wax will give you the best protection.

 

     2.     What kind of towel should I be using to remove polishes and waxes?

 

   A clean, dry Meguiar's Supreme Shine Microfiber Cloth is always recommended for removing polishes and waxes.

 

     3.    How do I remove wax residue from my vehicle's trim?

 

You will need to use a product that will break down the wax residue. Most all-purpose cleaners will do the job. Simply mist a small amount of all-purpose cleaner onto a soft nylon brush and agitate the area. Once all the wax residue  is removed, make sure and condition the trim with a quality protectant. To prevent this from happening in the future you can be a bit cautious around all moldings, or simply mask off the molding with masking tape.

 

     4.    What is the difference between paste and liquid?

 

     It is personal preference.  Many people enjoy using a paste wax while others enjoy a liquid wax.  We make both to ensure all parties will be satisfied when waxing their vehicles.

 

     5.     Is liquid, paste or spray wax best?
 

  A liquid or paste wax will give the best protection and is simply a matter of preference for use.  Spray waxes are great in when you are short on time, and they also act as a great  "booster wax".

 

     6.    What is the difference between a Polymer based, Carnauba based, and Teflon based Waxes?

    

All of our waxes contain a combination of carnauba and polymers.  Carnauba has been around for a long time and it is the hardest natural wax.  It gives very good protection when combined with other materials.  A polymer, on the other hand, gives excellent protection when combined with other chemicals.  Most of the newer formulations take advantage of polymer to increase the protective properties of a wax.

 

            Teflon does nothing to enhance the properties of a car wax.  Even though it may be added to a formulation, it is not adding a value to the overall protection properties.

 

     7.     How long do you let waxes, polishes, and cleaners dry?

Cleaners and polishes do not need to dry before you wipe them off.  Waxes on the other hand need some time to set up.  This time depends on the weather conditions.  The hotter and dryer it is, the quicker this takes place.  The cooler and wetter it is, the longer this takes.  The best way to determine when wax is ready to wipe off is to swipe your finger across a section that has wax on it.  If that swipe is not clear, then it is not ready for wipe off.  If it is clear then you can proceed to wipe off all remaining wax.

    

     8.    How do you prevent swirl marks?

 

To begin with, you’ll need to determine where the swirl marks are coming from.  Once that is determined, it is time to remove them from the paint with the proper products.  In the future, Swirl marks can be prevented by using the right products and techniques.  Stay away from harsh compounds to begin with.  In addition, Always use the highest quality toweling to remove wax residue.  By always using the best product sand proper techniques, you swirl problem should disappear.

 

     9.   How long does your wax last?

 

There are too many variables to answer this question, but longer than the competition.  Keep in mind there are many different types of environments and situations, which will have an effect on the wax.  We recommend waxing your car a minimum 4 times per year to ensure proper protection.

   

   E.       MAINTAIN

 

1.   What is the difference between Quik Detailer and Final Inspection?

Quik Detailer and Final Inspection both fall into the mist and wipe category. Final Inspection is designed to be used in the body shop environment and is available in larger sizes. Quik Detailer is used by many consumers and will be more readily available. As far as end result goes, both will yield amazing results when used properly.

 

2.   What is the difference between Quik Wax and Quik Detailer?

Quik Detailer contains NO “wax” and is designed to keep your car looking detailed all the time whereas Quik Wax does. So it will create gloss and add protection that is already laid onto the vehicle. When using both of these on a regular basis, your car will be protected and look like it has just been detailed all the time.

 

      3.   What product should i use best for maintenance and how often should i apply it?

        

Meguiars Ultimate Quik Detailer can be used every day to remove dust and fingerprints. It is a high lubricity formula that is safe on all types of paint, including clear coats, single stage paint, and ceramic clear coats.

 

Meguiars Ultimate Quik Detailer bridges the gap between washing and waxing with a unique hydrophobic formula that repels water, withstands multiple car washes, and adds additional protection to the finish.

     

 

     F.       OTHER SURFACES

 

1.     What can i use to restore faded trim?

 

Meguiar's Ultimate Protectant is the best product to restore a deep natural shine to faded plastic.

Plastic cladding and rubber trim is faded by the sun's rays. Meguiar's Ultimate Protectant offers very long durability due to its polymers bonding to protected surfaces.

 

You may use it for interior and exterior protectant.

 

 

Rub a small amount on the trim and apply evenly. Use cotton buds to apply on the tiny edges.

 

 

Result... Shine like new !!

 

     3.    How do i restore my vehicle's headlight?

 

           Depending on the severe level of your headlight condition, there are numerous headlight restoration kits available. Refer table below to assist :

          

          OXIDATION LEVEL :                                       LIGHT                              MODERATE                       SEVERE

 

          Headlight Restoration Product                Plast X Clear Plastic              1 Step Headlight                 Heavy Duty Headlight

                                                                         Cleaner & Polish                    Restoration Kit                    Restoration  Kit

                                                                         G 12310                                G 1900K                             G 3000

          

           For long term clarity, use Meguiar's Headlight Protectant to help keep them looking like new and well protected from those harmful UV rays.

 

 

     4.   What do I use to protect the black trim of my car?

 

 To ensure longevity, clean the surface thoroughly using a safe vinyl cleaner prior to applying Meguiar's Ultimate Protectant.

 

 

   G.    INTERIOR

 

1.    How often should you apply a leather conditioner?

As often as needed but under normal driving conditions and care, once a month is recommended. Meguiar's Gold Class Leather & Conditioner / Cleaner contains UV protection to help prevent aging, cracking and fading. The highly effective 1-step solution clean, condition and protect leather without leaving behind any white residue or artificial gloss, a perfect for use on virtually all leather surfaces, including those that are perforated, cracked and have stitching.

 

Try it on all your leather sofa, jacket, handbag, and shoes to see the amazing work.

 

 

     2.    What product can i use for dashboard against UV sunrays?

 

Meguiar's Natural Shine and Meguiar's Supreme Shine protectants have been designed to clean, condition & protects all vinyl & rubber surfaces using the proven effectiveness of  Scotchguard technology.

 

Alternatively Meguiar's Interior Detailer Cleaner is available to safely cleans & enhances all interior surfaces, restores and protects the original appearance.

 

 

    H.   WHEELS & TIRES

 

 

         1.   What product should i use on chrome?

 

Actual scratches in chrome plating are quite near impossible to remove no matter how hard chrome is. The new Finishing Metal Polish is great on chrome. If you've got brand new, high quality chrome (yes, there are low quality chrome finishes) that you want to keep looking really nice, the Finishing Polish is the best option.

 

For the three metal polishes (Heavy Cut , Medium Cut , Finishing Cut), we DO NOT recommend using the Heavy Cut on chrome as it may very well haze the finish. Removal of that haze on a surface as hard as chrome is no fun at all, so stick with the Medium Cut or Finishing Cut on chrome.

 

Also available is our NXT All Metal Polysh to clean, polish and protect all wheels, stainless steel exhaust, chrome air intake and valve cover, aluminium, brass, copper, silver and all other bright-work components.

Meguiar´s Microscopic Diminishing Abrasive Technology (MDAT) helps to remove built-up oxidation, tarnishing and staining faster and safer than traditional or harsh abrasives.
 

 

     2.   What should I use to clean my wheels?   

 

First, determine what type of wheels you have in order to use the correct wheel cleaner.   For "factory" painted or coated wheels, Meguiar's Hot Rims All Wheel & Tire Cleaner is the best solution. 

 

     3.   My brake pads produce little dust and what can I use to protect my rims?

 

Meguiar's Hot Rims Brake Dust Barrier uses advanced technology to provide a protection between dirt and your rims.  Spray a light layer to clean, dry wheels. Made to lasts for weeks, it really saves cleaning time and hard work the next time you need to clean your wheels.