Where Contamination Hides on Your Exterior
Paint contamination is not always visible to the naked eye. Embedded iron particles from brake dust, industrial fallout, and rail dust bond to your clear coat over time. Door jambs, behind mirrors, lower rocker panels, and the area under door handles are common spots where dirt and grime accumulate unnoticed. At Black Horse Auto, we methodically check every surface — not just the obvious panels.
The Clay Bar Test for Embedded Contamination
Running your hand across washed paint can reveal contamination you cannot see. If the surface feels rough or gritty, embedded particles are present. Professional clay bar decontamination removes these particles safely, restoring a glass-smooth finish. Black Horse Auto includes clay bar treatment in our paint correction services and recommends it at least twice a year for vehicles driven daily in the San Fernando Valley.
Paint-Safe Cleaning Techniques
Using the wrong cleaning method can create more problems than it solves. Black Horse Auto employs a touchless foam pre-rinse followed by a pH-neutral snow foam hand wash to lift dirt without scratching. We use separate wash mitts for upper and lower panels to prevent cross-contamination, and we finish with spot-free water to eliminate mineral deposits. Every step is designed to protect your paint while removing every trace of hidden grime.