My car is only a few months old, but I already have some rather badly etched water spots on the flat black A pillars and the flat black roof rails. I have tried everything from cleaner wax, to clay bar and even meguirs scratch X with no luck. Not even vinegar or rubbing alcohol worked. Anyone know the secret to getting water spots off of these flat black areas by hand? Will I need to get them machine buffed out?

Thanks

Thats amazing. Ive nver really noticed any problems with mine, except finger prints. You sure it was water drops?

i've dealt with water spots on the paint, but not on the trim/pillars. this is a new one! you could try one of the things like klasse aio... i also used to have something from mother's called "back to black" which i used on my first civic after someone waxed over the black plastic trim pieces. (grrr!!!) it worked great to make them look black again. you could give it a try. i'm not sure what is in it that makes it work to rid the waxed look from plastic trim that shouldn't have been waxed, but it worked well for that.

Mr. Clean magic eraser? :dunno:

Mr. Clean magic eraser? :dunno:

hey, don't laugh but that could possibly work! i removed paint from one fo stevel's leather seats in his old 04 with one!

You might want to try boat detailing products meant for that.

I've heard (you should verify before trying it) that a vinegar/water solution in a spray-bottle is good for that.

try the 303!!!

meguirs wipes?

Sounds like you've tried the manual methods so it's time to go with power. A pro detailer with the right machine, pads, and products should be able to remove them. If not, the only remaining choice is wetsanding and polishing....THAT requires a truly talented professional.