Have you noticed white, cloudy spots on your car’s surface after it rains or you wash it? These spots are usually called water stains and are a result of minerals from hard water. When you find water stains on your car, it is recommended to get rid of them as soon as possible because if they are left for a longer period, they become even harder to eliminate.
Fortunately, there are several good methods that can be used to remove these stains and bring your car back to its previous glory. Let’s see how to get rid of water stains on your car and where you should go if you want the job done in a professional way.
How Water Stains Occur
When water evaporates, it leaves behind minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals can attach to the surface of your car and form hard-to-remove stains. Water stains are also very stubborn especially if they have been on your car for a very long time. That is why it is very important to deal with them as soon as possible.
How to Get Rid of Water Stains
- Wash Your Car Thoroughly: First of all, you should wash your car with car wash soap and water, because it is the most effective method. This will wash off any external particles that may be on the surface to help reveal the water stains better. After washing, ensure that you rinse your car body with clean water and then use a clean microfiber towel to dry the car.
- Prepare the Cleaning Solution: Fill a spray bottle to the halfway mark with white vinegar, then fill the rest of the bottle with water. Vinegar is acidic and will aid in the removal of the minerals which cause the water stains. Apply the vinegar solution to the areas that are affected by the water stain.
- Gently Wipe Stains: Use a clean microfiber towel to wipe the water stains in a circular motion. Do not apply a lot of pressure at this stage as this might make the paint fade. Gradually the vinegar solution should begin to dissolve the mineral deposits.
- Rinse and Dry: After you have washed the stains with the vinegar solution, ensure that you rinse off all the vinegar solution from the surface. Pat the area dry with a microfiber cloth.
- Apply Polishing Compound: If the stains are still noticeable you can apply a small amount of the polishing compound on a clean microfiber cloth. Apply the compound in a circular motion. Polishing compounds are made from very fine abrasives that can assist in the removal of the first layer of the paint together with the stains. It is advisable to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions as well as the quantity of compound to be used.
- Finish with Detailing Spray: Once the water stains have been rubbed off, use a detailing spray on the areas. This will help wash off any remaining residues and also give your car’s paintwork that beaming look. After spraying, use a different clean microfiber towel to wipe off the surface of the spray.
- Wax Your Car: After washing your car, apply wax to avoid the formation of water stains on the paintwork in the future. Wax provides a layer that helps prevent water from sticking to the car and also aids when washing the car in the future.
Get A Professional Detailer
Do not be tempted to try these steps yourself. Take your car to a professional detailer so that they can help you restore the elegant look of your car. Using a DIY approach may end up causing more damage to your car’s paint.
You Can Rely On The Most Reputable Auto Detailing Shop In Silicon Valley
As one of 
the leading auto detailing and hand wash service providers in Silicon Valley, we at AJ Professional Detailing are honored to serve you. Since our establishment in 1985, we have been providing efficient car interior and exterior detailing services to our esteemed clients.
We are strategically located to serve car owners in San Jose and other parts of the Bay Area, CA, and we are well-equipped to deal with any water stains or other problems on your car’s body. If you want your car to retain its aesthetic then bring it to us. Give us a call at (408) 947-1111 to get a free quotation now!