[RoryCalderwood]

Hi!

Is it safe to use a clay bar on the side chrome vents?
Image from Google!

Mine are really rough to touch!

[Sophisto540]

I used a clay bar on my chrome exhaust tips with no ill effects. Obviously I did this last to spread those contaminants to the paint.

I would assume you could do the same with those vents.

[Nadz]

yeah no issues with it. Obviously make sure you follow a good technique to wash the car beforehand to get rid of as much of the cack on it as possible. go lightly with the clay and use enough lubricant to ensure you don't mar it. I have clayed these and the shadow line trim pieces with no issues.

As an aside - consider a clay towel - way faster if you are doing the whole car.

[Titan2004]

Are they original or overlays? Some overlay pieces aren't sprayed very well and that might explain a rough texture

If original, clay bar is fine

[RoryCalderwood]

Originally Posted by Titan2004

Are they original or overlays? Some overlay pieces aren't sprayed very well and that might explain a rough texture

If original, clay bar is fine

They are original (se trim), I guess given the location they get alot of splatter from the front wheels!

[Zereldo]

I would avoid using claybar on the chrome trim. Claybar is abrasive and will scratch the chrome. Scratches are expected when claying, hence why clay is only used when paint correction is the next step. Chrome trim is not porous like paint is so no point in claying it to begin with. Your best bet is to use iron decontamination followed by tar/tree sap decontamination if necessary. Metal polish is another way of bringing the chrome back to life.

[cbarden]

The Meguiars Cleaner Wax is safe on chrome pieces. I've tried it before.