Opti-Coat + Car port = ?

[Cjymiller]

Hi Friends,

I am evaluating the pros and cons of opti-coating on a GBS BRZ that will not be stored in a garage. Does anyone have their car opti-coated who parks on the street or in a car port who can help me out?

My questions to you would be:

1. What is involved in cleaning moderate amounts of dust or pollen off the car? How does it differ from your standard car wash? (its not like I'm parking under a tree or next to a construction site)

2. What do you do to maintain the finish and the shine? How often do you do this?

3. I understand it protects your car's paint and finish in the long run but what are some short term benefits or conveniences are provided by opti-coating?

4. Are there any extra steps required to fix a scratched body panel compared to fixing a panel that has not been coated?

5. Any drawbacks from getting the coating? (besides the cost)

I've been reading on other threads about others enjoying their opti-coating but I would love to have a complete understanding before deciding to drop +$700 on the coating.

[subiestar]

Mine's opti-coated in I park 50% carport / 50% uncovered, and here's my input:

1. I've been told by my detailer to put 1/4 cap full of ONR (Optimum No Rinse) into a spray bottle with distilled water, and use it as a quick detailer. Work one panel of the car at a time, spray a generous amount, and wipe off with good quality microfiber towel. Your car will look like it's been through a regular wash, but takes a lot less time.

2. If it's lightly or moderately dirty, I use the method in 1 above or I use the Garry Dean method (which I really like as a full wash alternative). I try to clean it once a week. And that's part of the beauty of opti-coat, you just use good quality mild soap and distilled water, and it looks like you just waxed it. If it's super dirty, I would pre-soak it as much as I can and use the 2 bucket method (a foam gun would really help here if you have access to running water).

3. I haven't experience it myself yet, but opti-coat serves as a better protection against bird droppings, tree sap, or anything that can deform the surface of your paint. It's suppose to be easier to clean such things when your paint is opti-coated.

4. From what my detailer told me, fixing a scratch after opti-coat is the same as fixing a scratch before opti-coat

5. Yeah, trying to keep your car clean and shiny everyday to feel you're getting your $$$ worth opti-coating it

[Cjymiller]

Big thanks for taking the time to answer my questions. I'm glad you were able to give me an impression of what it takes to maintain that stellar finish.