What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, if you've been driving near train tracks or just living in a coastal town, your paint is likely riddled with iron contamination. I learned this the hard way on a black Commodore I owned years ago, I polished it without doing a decon first and just ended up swirling the metal bits into the paint. Total nightmare. This checklist is for anyone wanting to get their paint smooth again before winter hits.
Gear You'll Need
What You'll Need
While you're here...
Pre-Start Checklist
What You'll Need
Execution Steps
The Initial Wash
Give the car a proper wash to remove loose dirt, red dust, and bird tea. You want the chemical hitting the paint, not the mud.
Apply the Iron Remover
Working one panel at a time, spray a liberal amount over the paint. Start from the bottom where most of the brake dust sits.
Dwell Time
Wait 3-5 minutes. You'll see it turn purple (bleeding). A customer once panicked thinking it was melting the paint, but it's just the chemical reaction.
Agitation (Optional)
If it's really bad, use a damp wash mitt to gently spread the product around. Don't use pressure, just let the liquid do the work.
Thorough Rinse
Rinse the panel until the water runs clear. Pay extra attention to window seals and door handles where the purple stuff likes to hide.
The Clay Test
Run your hand over the paint. If it still feels like sandpaper, grab your clay bar and lube to finish the job.
Final Inspection
What You'll Need
Watch Out
Pro Tip
Trusted by 50,000+ Aussie car owners
Professional advice for Australian conditions
Products We Recommend
Keep Learning
Ready to level up your car care?
You've got the knowledge—now put it into action. Explore more guides or check out our recommended products.
Get Weekly Car Care Tips
Join 12,000+ Aussie car enthusiasts
Keep Reading
How to Get Rid of Stubborn Water Spots for Good
Water spots are a literal plague on Aussie cars, especially with our harsh minerals and brutal sun. This guide shows you how to safely dissolve those crusty rings without ruining your clear coat.
How to Get a Pro Detail Finish in Your Own Driveway
Stop wasting money at those dodgy scratch-and-shine car washes. I'll show you how to properly deep-clean your rig to survive the Aussie sun and red dust without trashing your paint.
Saving Your Paint From Bird Bomb Etching
Bird and bat droppings aren't just gross, they're acidic enough to eat through your clear coat in hours under the Aussie sun. Learn how to neutralize the acid and protect your finish before the damage is permanent.
How to Kill Off Water Spots Before They Eat Your Paint
Water spots aren't just ugly marks; they're mineral deposits that can permanently etch into your clear coat. Here is how to remove them safely without ruining your pride and joy.