I just got a new 09 CTS in Diamond White Tricoat. I bought Zaino the same day I bought the car, but a friend of mine said his dealer (BMW) told him not to do anything to the finish. The clearcoat is apparently the best protection for the first year. I know WAX should not be used, but Zaino isn't a wax, is it?

Should I wait a year before Zaino?

Also, I've read many times about not using dishwashing liquid, but have read about Dawn Ultra being used the first time. I read somewhere to just wash your car with cool water. Never use soap! Weird.

Would love the skinny on these subjects. I want my paint to last as long as possible. I'd hate to do something that isn't good for the paint, or something that is unnecessary. I trust my friend, but he's going by what the dealer said. I'd like some science on this if possible.

Thanks in advance!!!

Your paint is as hard as it's going to be as soon as you get your car, Zaino away. You would only need to wait on "waxing" your car if it was repainted and not baked like the factory paint is, and again Zaino is not a wax and you can use Zaino on fresh paint, you just would not want to use an abrasive product on a repaint for al least 90 days. Wash with regular Dawn the first wash to remove any silicone oils, it's will hurt nothing on your car. You should always use a good car wash and NEVER just water, that is because water does not offer the lubricity to lift dirt to prevent scratching while washing like car wash does.

...............take a look at www.autogeek.net and get to a Grit Guard (shop by Product tab).......clever trick for wash buckets.........it works.

Thanks for the tips! I think my friend's dealer was probably referring to waxing and not something like Zaino. Thanks again! Will hopefully Zaino this week.

Carl is right on the new paint vs. old paint; to wax or not to wax. Check out usplastics.com for the gritguards, they are much cheaper. In the Ferrari owners manual it actually states to wash the car with just water so go figure. I'll stick to my pressure washer/foam cannon/2 mitt/2 bucket/4 gritguard/leafblower system for all my washes. Despite buying white, Cadillac's have some of the softest paint these days so it would be in your interest to stop over to www.autopia.org and read the car detailing guides and invest in some quality products to keep your new ride lookin new. My $.02.