You should always clay bar your car with the surface wet, never dry. Using a clay bar on a dry surface can cause significant damage to the paint. Here’s how to do it correctly:

Why Use a Lubricant?

• Reduce Friction: Lubrication minimizes the friction between the clay bar and the paint surface, reducing the risk of marring or scratching the paint.
• Ease of Use: Lubrication allows the clay bar to glide smoothly over the paint, making the process more effective and easier.

Steps to Properly Clay Bar Your Car

1. Wash the Car: Start by thoroughly washing your car to remove loose dirt and debris. This prevents larger particles from scratching the paint during the claying process.
2. Prepare the Lubricant: Use a clay bar lubricant or a quick detailer spray. You can also use a mixture of car shampoo and water as an alternative. Fill a spray bottle with your chosen lubricant.
3. Clay the Car: Spray the Lubricant: Generously spray the lubricant onto a small section of the car's paint (about 2' x 2').  Glide the Clay Bar: Gently glide the clay bar over the lubricated area in straight lines (back and forth or up and down). Do not use circular motions.  Check the Clay: Frequently check the clay bar for contaminants. Fold and knead the clay to expose a clean surface as needed.  Wipe the Area: After claying each section, wipe it down with a clean microfiber towel to remove any residual lubricant and contaminants.
4. Repeat as Needed: Continue the process section by section until the entire car has been clayed.

After Claying

• Inspect the Surface: Run your hand over the paint to ensure it feels smooth. If any rough spots remain, you might need to clay those areas again.
• Apply a Wax or Sealant: Claying removes existing wax or sealant layers, so it’s important to apply a fresh layer of wax or paint sealant to protect the paint and restore its shine.

Conclusion

Always use a lubricant when claying your car to ensure a smooth and safe process. Claying on a dry surface can cause scratches and damage the paint. Proper lubrication, along with gentle technique, will help you achieve a smooth, contaminant-free surface without harming your vehicle's finish.