Sharp Attention and Care for BMW Matte Paint

BMW's matte paint required utmost care and sharp attention from its owners.If you happen to own one of BMW's collection of “frozen” matte colors that is never shiny and c an look good even when dirty, you need to know these tips from Kicking Tires on how to take care of it.

1. The paint doesn't need as much maintenance as regular paint because BMW's first warning cautions that waxes and polishes can damage the paint by giving unwanted shine to the desired dull luster. Ruh-roh. Buffing with a machine or the wrong product can create shiny spots and uneven surfaces. Nothing even mildly abrasive is recommend on frozen colors, either, so glazes, compounds and quick detailers are also out.

2. Hand washing is the preferred method for washing BMW's frozen colors. No surprise — BMW recommends its own brand of car shampoo, bug remover and sheepskin wash mitt to care for matte colors. The most important part of maintaining a frozen color is keeping the surface free of contaminants, Matthew Russell, BMW's product and technology communications manager, said in an email. BMW's bug remover is recommended immediately after any contaminants touch the paint, including insects, tree sap, bird droppings, tar and oils. BMW warns regular microfiber cloths shouldn't be used, and excessive rubbing can create a glossy spot in the paint. OK, now this paint is starting to sound finicky.

3. Want to take a frozen-colored Bimmer through an automatic car wash? There are guidelines for that, too. Touch-less car washes are preferred over brushed ones, and brushes must be soft ones, not plastic bristles. The no-wax requirements also apply to automatic washes, so pick a wash cycle without a wax.