A clay bar is a detailing tool used in auto care to remove contaminants from the surface of a vehicle's paint.

It's made of a malleable clay-like material that, when rubbed across the paintwork, picks up embedded particles such as dirt, industrial fallout, tar, and brake dust.

These contaminants can't always be removed by washing alone and can affect the paint's appearance and longevity if left untreated.

Clay bars help achieve a smoother and cleaner surface, preparing it for polishing, waxing, or sealing.