vauxhall zafira

[bob561941]

I've recently bought a two year old zafira,the salesman told me that for the last five years manufacturers now use a water based paint replacing the old solvent based paint,he then tried to sell me a body protection costing several hundred pounds whilst giving me all sorts of scare stories.
Is this the motor trades equivalent of salesmen in the electrical goods trade flogging and extended guarantee wherebyou end up paying more in ninsurance than the goods ?

[douglas9401]

Yes.

[Donquixote]

It's true that manufacturers have (for much longer than the last five years) been using water-based paints on their bodywork. But if the newer paints weren't up to the job, they wouldn't use them. All you need is a good quality silicone or wax polish and to use it once a month. These LifeShine treatments and the like are good, but no better than elbow grease and some decent polish. Don't waste your money!

[bob561941]

thankyou don quixote

[Andyvon]

Modern paints are water-based and have to be baked in an oven to cure them. However, the manufacturers use a solvent-based primer underneath and a solvent-based lacquer on top - otherwise the paint would just wash off in the rain!

It sounds as if the dealer was just trying to sell you the lacquer Bob. You can buy many products such as Mer or Meguirs Speed Detailer in Halford for £10 a bottle. They do much the same by forming a clear coat on top of the finish to seal in the paint.

[Toureman]

A speed detailer is just a lubricant that enables you to use a clay bar to detail your car it does not give the car any protection.

[TWR]

Providing you polish the car frequent enough Bob, that will protect the paint. ( Part time Valeting 30+years, this bull sht regards Body Protection! that's what it is( Bull Sht).

[Vicasso]

I agree with TWR. My youngest son had a 2 year weekend/holiday valeting job at a local Mercedes dealer when he was studying for his 'A' levels. The salesmen were always trying to sell 'body protection' treatments to increase the profit margins.
A Mercedes needs 'body protection' ?????

[Hopkirk]

It's like buying a pair of shoes at Clarks.

They always try to flog you a protective spray.

Or WHSmiths who ask if you want a bar of chocolate.