It is not recommended to clean your car's bodywork with glass cleaner, especially if it contains ammonia (commonly found in traditional glass cleaners). While glass cleaner is designed for use on glass, it can have negative effects on your car’s paint and finish. Here’s why:

Why You Shouldn’t Use Glass Cleaner on Car Bodywork:

1. Harsh Chemicals:

   Many glass cleaners, particularly those containing ammonia, can strip away protective coatings like wax, sealant, or ceramic coatings on your car’s paint. This leaves the paint vulnerable to UV damage, dirt, and other contaminants.

2. No Paint Protection:

   Glass cleaners do not contain any ingredients designed to protect or enhance the gloss of your car’s paint. They are simply meant to clean glass, and using them on paint won’t give you the shine or protection you need.

3. Streaking and Residue:

   Glass cleaners can leave streaks or a cloudy residue on your car's paint, especially when exposed to direct sunlight. This can result in uneven surfaces or dull-looking paint.

4. Potential Damage to Rubber and Plastics:

   Ammonia-based glass cleaners can damage rubber seals and plastic trim by drying them out or causing discoloration over time.

What to Use Instead:

1. Car Shampoo:

   Car wash soap is formulated specifically for automotive paint and will clean your car without stripping wax or damaging the surface. Popular options include Meguiar’s Gold Class Car Wash or Chemical Guys Mr. Pink.

2. Quick Detailer Spray:

   For a quick clean between washes, use a quick detailer spray like Meguiar’s Ultimate Quik Detailer or Chemical Guys Speed Wipe. These sprays are safe for paint and will enhance shine while removing light dust and dirt.

3. Waterless Wash:

   If you need to clean your car without water, use a waterless wash product like Optimum No Rinse Wash & Shine or Chemical Guys Swift Wipe Waterless Wash. These products clean the paint safely while adding shine and protection.

4. Clay Bar (for decontamination):

   If you’re looking to remove contaminants like tree sap or road tar, use a clay bar instead of glass cleaner. It will lift off embedded contaminants without harming your car’s paint.

Conclusion:

While glass cleaner is great for cleaning your car’s windows, it is not suitable for cleaning the bodywork or paint. Using car-specific products like car shampoo, quick detailers, or waterless wash will not only clean the surface more effectively but will also protect your car’s finish, leaving it shiny and well-maintained.