If you're used to detailing your own ride, you probably already know about clay bars. Maybe you don't? They're the best way to achieve the ultimate in smooth, clean, blemish-free, shiny finishes for your newly washed car. How? Our Salem, OR Capitol Cadillac of Salem service department specialists have your quick rundown.

A clay bar is a synthetic auto detailing tool made of a resin mixture. It has the consistency of actual clay, molding, and stretching easily in your hand. Clay bars also have an unusual, wonderful adhesive or sponge-like quality. Gliding over your car's surface, clay bars attract and collect dirt, pollutants, and contaminants from your car's paint job, fiberglass, metal, and glass.

Clay bars deliver a completely non-abrasive treatment, never leaving the streaks, blemishes, or scratches associated with buffing and polishing. Our Albany, OR area Capitol Cadillac of Salem experts recommend applying a clay bar treatment twice annually. Do it after a thorough washing with shampoo, suds, and mitts. Use a special lubricant to prevent debris trapped on the clay bar's surface from scratching your ride's clearcoat.