Yes, it is generally recommended to clay bar your whole car to ensure that the entire surface is free from contaminants. Here’s why you should consider claying the whole car and how to do it effectively:

Why Clay Bar the Whole Car?

1. Uniform Cleanliness: Claying the entire car ensures that all areas are equally clean and smooth, providing a uniform surface for polishing and waxing.
2. Remove Contaminants: Even if some areas don’t look dirty, contaminants like industrial fallout, brake dust, tree sap, and tar can bond to the paint and may not be visible. Claying removes these contaminants effectively.
3. Improved Paint Protection: A completely clean surface allows wax or sealant to adhere better, providing longer-lasting protection.
4. Enhanced Shine: Claying helps to enhance the overall shine and clarity of the paint by removing embedded particles that dull the finish.

How to Clay Bar Your Whole Car

Materials Needed:

• Clay bar or clay mitt
• Clay lubricant (or a mixture of car shampoo and water)
• Microfiber towels
• Car wash supplies (car wash soap, bucket, wash mitt, hose)

Steps:

1. Wash and Dry the Car:

   • Start by thoroughly washing your car to remove loose dirt and debris. This helps prevent scratching during the claying process.
   • Dry the car completely using clean microfiber towels.

2. Prepare the Clay Bar:

   • Cut the clay bar into smaller, manageable pieces. This ensures you have backup pieces if you drop one.
   • Knead the clay piece in your hands until it becomes soft and pliable.

3. Lubricate the Surface:

   • Work on a small section of the car at a time (about 2' x 2').
   • Spray a generous amount of clay lubricant onto the section you are working on. Ensure the area is well-lubricated to prevent marring.

4. Use the Clay Bar:

   • Gently glide the clay bar over the lubricated section using straight-line motions (back and forth or up and down). Do not use circular motions.
   • You will feel the clay bar picking up contaminants; it will glide more smoothly as the surface becomes clean.
   • Check the clay bar frequently for contaminants and knead it to expose a clean surface.

5. Wipe Off Residue:

   • After claying each section, wipe it down with a clean microfiber towel to remove any residual lubricant and contaminants.

6. Repeat the Process:

   • Continue the process, section by section, until the entire car has been clayed. Ensure each section is well-lubricated before claying to avoid scratches.

7. Inspect the Surface:

   • Run your hand over the paint to ensure it feels smooth. If any rough spots remain, re-clay those areas. The paint should feel smooth and glass-like once the process is complete.

8. Follow Up with Polishing and Waxing:

   • Claying removes contaminants but also strips away wax. To protect the paint, follow up with a coat of wax or sealant.
   • Optionally, you can polish the paint before waxing to enhance the shine and remove any minor imperfections.

Tips for Success:

• Work in the Shade: To avoid water spots and ensure the lubricant doesn't dry too quickly, work in a shaded area.
• Use Plenty of Lubricant: Ensuring the surface is well-lubricated minimizes the risk of marring or scratching the paint.
• Be Gentle: Let the clay bar do the work. Apply light pressure and move the clay gently across the surface.

By following these steps, you can achieve a smooth, contaminant-free paint surface that is ready for polishing and waxing, ensuring your car looks its best.