Remove bugs when washing isn't an option

[Markbarry1977]

With this time of year having an abundance of bugs I am after some advice.

1st I know not to leave them on and get them off as soon as is possible. I often travel to places where washin a car myself isn't practical. I.e hotels, military bases etc.

I could use the local jetwash, automatic machine or supermarket hand wash service but would prefer not too.

Therefore can anyone recommend a technique/product to remove bugs without washing the car.

If not which one above would you use/recommend. Jetwash/supermarket style hand wash/automatic machine.

This is my first ever brand new car with immaculate paintwork and I would like to keep it that way.

Cheers guys/girls for your advice.

Now I could use a local

[Magic919]

Soak kitchen roll, apply and leave that to soften them. I use Plenty as it doesn't break into pieces.

[waa]

You want to get it really clean wax it then use a paint sealant,this will make it much easier to get the bugs of.

[Markbarry1977]

It's had the BMW protection x applied. I negotiated it for free as part of the purchase of the car. I believe that is a paint selant.

I have read about using wd40 and a soft cloth, I can't for a second believe that's a good idea.

Also what am I soaking paper towels with. Just water.

[Dermot O'Logical]

Paper towels soaked in water and http://www.cleanyourcar.co.uk/washing-and-drying/p...

[dkatwa]

Showroom shine, with microfibre cloth...

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/like/231548047445?lpid=1...

It's the best glass cleaner I have found too...try on your mirrors at home....

I use this product to clean the car without water (except windscreen - I use Invisible Glass for that)

[Alex_225]

waa said:

You want to get it really clean wax it then use a paint sealant,this will make it much easier to get the bugs of.

Agreed. Even if you just wax the obvious places like bumper, bonnet and wing mirrors, you'll find removing bugs so much easier. Also, can use a quick detailing spray and a microfibre.

Pre-soak the cloth, spray the bugs and leave to soften and then wipe gently off.

[Markbarry1977]

Okay so quick question,

I assume BMW applied the protection x (paint sealant) I now assume I just polish and wax on top of the paint sealant and then use the products you guys have recommended to clear the car before re polishing and re waxing. Also how often do you wax before applying more polish.

My understanding. Polish is to make it shine, wax is to protect.

Thanks guys/girls for the advice.

[Alex_225]

How long has that sealant been applied?

I know they claim years but chances are it won't last anywhere near that long. If you polish the car, it will most likely remove the sealant and then you could add your own wax. If you'd rather not do that, simply wax it and you'll get that slick feel to the paint, will make it easier to remove any bugs.

The whole dealer applied paint sealants is an interesting topic on it's own haha.

[dub16v]

I recently waxed and sealed my Swift Sport and the bugs now, perhaps unsurprisingly, wipe off very easily when washing (I was every weekend).

I have used Autoglym's tar and bug remover but I don't find that it makes much difference.

[mike9009]

I have always used a pack of baby wipes for such tasks. They were great when driving though Europe on numerous summer travel trips.....

Mike

[Markbarry1977]

How long has that sealant been applied?

About a week.

Thanks for the helpful advice

[Summit_Detailing]

I'd recommend Gtechniq W8 bug remover and some generic microfibre cloths, combined with using the jet wash (just water, no chemicals) at a local supermarket / petrol station local to where you happen to be.

cheers

Chris