GenVibe - Community for Pontiac Vibe Enthusiasts

As some of you know, I have a lot of fresh paint on my Vibe, are there any big no-nos or tips with waxing or cleaning the new paint? And how long till it cures?

When the boss was in her accident the body guy told us that we should not wash it for 72 hrs. This would allow for the paint to finish curing. They also stated that it should not be waxed for about a week. This way if there were any paint imperfections they would show up in about a week and we would not be blamed for the damage.

After mine they said dont wax the car for like 3 or 6 months...but they had waxed it for me and did all that before i picked it up I did wash it though, but had to wait a couple days they said..I think i just washed it like a week or 2 later..

When my wife's Aztek hood was repaired repainted after a hailstorm, they said no waxing for 120 days.

120 days on the waxing, and the 1st month I was told not to wash with soap. (removed) ?

1) Do not wash the paint for 7 days2) Do not wax the paint for 60-90 days depending on the part. Typically 60 for plastics and polymers like bumpers and moulding and 90 for metal like the hood or fender.3) Do not use a harsh product. i.e. Not swirl remover at first. Wax it for the winter to protect it as is, then next year move to the clay bar and swirl remover like a Meguiar's #80 to start.4) When washing, use Mother's California Gold wash. Others have waxes and other chemicals mixed with them. A straight car wash soap like this goes a long way.5) Fight the urge to rub or polish them or wipe them clean. Let them be for at least a full week before doing anything!6) When washing, dry with a 100% cotton towel or microfiber. Do not use a chamois or the like. It will worsen the swirling.Any other questions regarding new fresh paint, please let me know!

Thanks guys for the help, one more question, I had a fender replaced with a decal on it, and I was just wondering if I can put another one on... I'm trying to be VERY careful with this paint job because I f-ed up the last one.

Wait 3 weeks for the decal as well, that way if you ever remove it or replace it, no worries on the paint becoming faded.