Clay bars tested

Remove contaminants from paint with our pick of claying kits before you apply wax

We try 10 to see which leaves the smoothest finish on paintwork

PRODUCT GROUP TEST 12| 9| 2018 Every week, we extensively test all the latest car kit from tyres to trim cleaners. Log on to www.autoexpress.co.uk to look through our huge online test archive

REMOVING grime you can’t see sounds like a waste of time, but that’s t’s what a clay bar does and it’s vital for preparing paint for a wax or sealant. t.

Iron particles, brake dust and tree sap are just some of the minute contaminants left behind by even the most thorough of washes, and are found most often on horizontal panels like the bonnet and roof. These can reduce the bond between paint and any protective coating applied. ed.

If you can’t see these contaminants, how do you know you need to clay? Slip a finger in a plastic bag and run it over the washed and dried surface. If it feels like sandpaper it needs claying.

Now it’s a case of finding the right clay solution for the job. We put 10 to the test to name the best in the business.

Howwe tested them

AS in our last test (Issue 1,432), we focused on the clay’s core use: preparing bodywork. We tried each bar to the maker’s instructions on a neglected roof. With limited wiping, we made two attempts, monitoring progress using the plastic bag test after each pass.

Other factors included what you get, storage, instructions and whether you can use water as a lubricant or need to buy a detailing spray. We also took into account price from makers’ sites or other online sources.

Verdict

ONCE Bilt-hamber wins one of our tests, it doesn’t give up its crown easily, and auto-clay secures yet another Best Buy award. Meguiar’s improvements have paid off and it takes second; this is our favourite kit. The good-value Vertar takes the final podium place. 1. Bilt-hamber auto-clay regular 2. Meguiar’s Smooth Surface Clay Kit 3. Vertar V-clay