[manu328]

I just purchased a blk 08 328xi coupe from the dealer and indeed it has almost no wax with some fine swirl marks. I am a little bit of a novice to detailing and will be doing this all by hand.. Would like any info on best products and proper steps

Thanks

[Gig103]

For swirls, you won't be able to remove them by hand it needs a machine polish. But welcome, and you should definitely read the Detailed Image Detailing Guide.

Any car shampoo sold by them, or DetailersDomain (our other site sponsor), will be safe and work great. Same with the waxes and sealants, although I am very partial to BlackFire Wet Diamond. Despite the price, it looks great on black and lasts longer than traditional wax.

[Kramzz335i]

When I started out detailing, I used Meguiar's Ultimate Compound to remove minor swirls by hand. It worked out really well. Then I proceeded to use Meguiar's Ultimate Polish to add depth to the shine and to remove very fine swirls/scratches. Then I apply a coat or two of wax (depending upon which wax is being used). For beginners these are great products because they can both be applied by hand, it just may take a little longer.

[Detailed Image]

Congrats on the new ride! As mentioned above the detailing guide and our Ask a Pro Blog. This is a great place to start and help you along the way.

Most swirls come from the washing and drying process so make sure you use good technique (see our Detailing Guide) and use quality products. If you need to upgrade your materials check out these three package deals:
http://www.detailedimage.com/DI-Pack...-Package-P148/
http://www.detailedimage.com/DI-Pack...mate-Kit-P141/
http://www.detailedimage.com/DI-Pack...nced-Kit-P368/

Exterior Protection
Protecting the exterior right away will preserve the paint and make future cleanings easier. I highly recommend the Blackfire Wet Diamond All Finish Paint Protection because it looks amazing, applies with ease and protects for months (4-6). I also use it on the headlights, exterior glass and wheels for added protection. You only need about 1 oz per coat for a medium size car so apply it nice and thin for best results.

Microfiber
Microfiber is paint safe and highly effective at removing the left over clay lube, polish, sealant, wax, etc. For this process I would suggest getting 5x - 10x of the DI Microfiber All Purpose Towel (http://www.detailedimage.com/DI-Micr...03/16-x-16-S1/). These towels are also great for interior cleanings, apply protection, leather care, glass care and so much more!

Interior Protection
303 Aerospace Protectant protects just about the whole interior (vinyl, plastic, rubber, leather). It blocks out UV rays and preserves the finish so apply it to the dashboard, doors, console, arm rests, exterior trim, rubber moldings, etc. etc. Protecting the carpets and mats is super easy just mist the 303 High Tech Fabric Guard on them and you are done! It will help repel moisture while keeping the fibers flexible and soft.

If you follow these basic pre-cautions your vehicle will look great for years to come and keep the re-sale value up! If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask. Take care!

Greg @ DI