Best way to protect new paint?

[shortskoolbus]

Just purchased a new car and am trying to decide between the optimum and zaino products. Sorry I hope you guys will bare with me here it`s been a while since i`ve researched any new products.



On my old vehicle i was using the Klasse AIO twins but the application was such a PITA that it`s time for me to find something new.



First I am a little confused about the Zaino system. The kit they sell online includes Z2 and Z5, but both seem to serve the same purpose. Are these supposed to be used together?



I am seeing pretty good things about the Optimum products. Can i use OOS on top of Z2/Z5, or do i need to stick with the Zaino system? Can i use OCW yet on top of that?



Lastly, for new paint, is it even necessary to go with an abrasive cleaner at this point? Or can i just wash and use OOS or Zaino CS?



Thanks in advance for your help!

[Dan]

Stick with a single system. IMO, the Optimum system is much easier to work with.



ONR for washes

OID for touchups and extra gloss

Polyseal as a awesome 1 step to remove light swirls

Opti-seal is a very easy to use sealant that works

OCW as a great and easy to use wax



The Zaino will look a bit brighter/more blingy but its harder to use, more expensive and its protective abilities are debatable. Sal says it best, its a "Show Car Polish" Optimum is great for a daily driver.

[BobD]

Any reason you choose Optimum or Zaino? Just curious. I like Four Star stuff myself.

[Dan]

Any reason you choose Optimum or Zaino? Just curious. I like Four Star stuff myself.



Both get lots of press even though they aren`t in any way connected to this site? :nervous2:

[Sir Clean]

I am leaning toward glass coating for long lasting paint protection. Carnauba wax and polymer sealant are not as hard as glass-based coating.

[brwill2005]

I am leaning toward glass coating for long lasting paint protection. Carnauba wax and polymer sealant are not as hard as glass-based coating.



What exactly is a glass based coating? Can you give an example of this type of coating. As for the response to the OP, keep it simple and choose a good paint sealant. IMO, the difference between the best manufacturers is marginal. Of course the best thing you can do for your car`s paint, is to properly wash it on a regular basis. One can even use OCW while drying to protect paint. OCW layers up very nicely after a few quick applications while drying.

[DETAILKING]

I have been using the Zaino system for years and it`s great for a daily driver. Last year, while we were planning our wedding I had limited time to spend with my car and Zaino seemed to last forever with biweekly washes, and I would alternate z6 and z8 with every wash. I prefer z5 on lighter colors and z2 on darker colors. If the car is clean and swirl free you won`t need aio or zpc. Clearseal is also an option if you are looking to save time, assuming you are starting with a clean car. I like to apply cs over a base coat of z2 or zaio, but it is not necessary. I would at least wash and clay the car though so you are starting with a really clean, smooth surface.......and maintain after each wash with z6 or z8. Also, a little product goes a long way, so bottles should last you a while.

[Sir Clean]

What exactly is a glass based coating? Can you give an example of this type of coating. As for the response to the OP, keep it simple and choose a good paint sealant. IMO, the difference between the best manufacturers is marginal. Of course the best thing you can do for your car`s paint, is to properly wash it on a regular basis. One can even use OCW while drying to protect paint. OCW layers up very nicely after a few quick applications while drying.

Here is one of the market leaders in this segment. Home (http://www.crystalguard.jp/)



You can layer it over the previous coat for better protection and shine.

[David Fermani]

Just purchased a new car and am trying to decide between the optimum and zaino products.



This product is proving to be very durable so far:



http://www.autopia.org/forum/car-detailing-product-discussion/126661-optimum-opti-coating-durability-test-review.html



But, you can`t go wrong with the Zaino system. It`s a very unique product line that I absolutely love using. :up

[JohnKleven]

Here is one of the market leaders in this segment. Home (http://www.crystalguard.jp/)



You can layer it over the previous coat for better protection and shine.



It looks like a great website, but I believe it`s been written in Canadian, and I can`t read it.

[JohnKleven]

Crystal Guard seems like it might be a lot like Nanoskin. Which creates a sol-gel, and is very hydrophobic and long lasting. Good luck, and let us know how the product works out for you.





John

[shortskoolbus]

Thanks. I think I`ll try out the Optimum products then :)



Being a new car, can I just use OOS and then top with OCW? Or do i need to apply something else before the OOS?