Yeah...the clay bar didn't scratch your car. The dirt you just dragged along the surface did. Get it nice and clean first and always check the bar a couple times per panel for anything big that got in it. Fold it every panel or so to keep it clean. Replace when it gets dirty. BTW, Soap and Water is fine as a replacement for Instant Detailer...That's what I use because it's considerably less. Just use a good quality Auto soap (NOT dish soap, unless you are looking to strip your wax) along with some filtered water. All this after you have already thoroughly cleaned the car. The wash step and clay bar step are not to be combined!
Cliffs Notes: Wash & Dry, Clay Bar & Spray Bottle of Soap & Water, Polish, Wax (Panel at a time) for the best results IMO. Use good quality products with Microfiber towels.
Modified by bakertime at 9:47 AM 5/7/2008
1997 DC4, GSR swapped...lots of goodies.
2001 EM2 VTEC: Lowered, I&E (Sold)Vouches: ek_will, Thundercat