For the glass, a PC with a cutting pad (aggressive pad) makes the job soooo much easier. The glass polish I mentioned earlier (Duragloss Nu Glass) is used just like a paint polish, but only on the glass. Basically, you work it in eaither by hand or PC, then buff it off. I have used paint polishes on glass (such as DACP) with a PC to remove light water spots, and they were effective. But on heavy or deep water spots, the Duragloss Nu Glass wins hands down. Not only is it more effective, but it is easier to use on glass. The "problem" with paint polishes on glass is that they typically contain higher levels of lubricating oils, which makes for smearing when buffing it off. A work-around for this problem is to simply wash the car after polishing the glass to ensure you get all of the polish residue off of the glass. Washing after polishing the glass will also remove the polish dust that will inevitably get in every nook and cranny around your windshield, cowl, and door seams.
There are several glass "protection" type products on the market, such as RainX and AccuVision. I have used both with great results, but the RainX seems to last much longer on my car (over a year compared to 1 month for the AccuVision). On the other hand, AccuVision is so much easier to use, that monthly application isn't really much more work. Both create a nice beading effect of water on the exterior glass, and will help prevent water spots from becoming permanent. I highly suggest either of these products on ALL exterior glass, including mirrors. Not only do they help prevent waterspots, but they increase safety while driving. I actually very rarely even use my windshield wipers.
Another thing I can't stress enough for glass maintenance is being very diligent about keeping the glass clean. I clean mine daily, whether by simply using a squeegee to remove morning dew or a glass cleaner and rag. This really helps prevent water spots from returning, or bugs from etching the windshield. It also greatly improves the effectiveness of my RainX, as it isn't as effective beading water off the windows if they're dirty (same principle as waxed, but dirty paint doesn't bead water as well as waxed and clean paint).
For the paint, you've gotten some pretty sound advice above. There is also more than enough info on this board to keep someone entertained for days on end.
I know this all sounds like a bunch of work, but the end result is worth it. As for the glass maintenance, it's just part of my routine that I don't even think about anymore. Even my wife and kids understand that Daddy's going to clean the windows before we go anywhere. They just accept it....
This disease will sneak you when you least expect it.....
Dave
