How To Clean and Maintain a Carbon Fiber Hood

A carbon fiber hood is a premium upgrade for any Subaru WRX or STI. They offer a blend of lightweight performance and aggressive styling. Its distinct weave and glossy finish set your vehicle apart.

Protecting this investment requires more than just a quick wash. Proper care is essential to preserve the finish, prevent UV damage, and maintain its appearance for years. WRXDaily’s guide will provide clear, step-by-step instructions on how to clean and maintain a carbon fiber hood.

Materials and Tools Needed

Gathering the right supplies beforehand makes the process smoother and safer for your hood's delicate finish. You will need high-quality products specific to automotive detailing to avoid scratches and chemical damage.

Here is a list of recommended items:

• Two 5-gallon buckets with grit guards
• A pH-neutral car wash soap
• Multiple clean microfiber wash mitts
• A pressure washer or garden hose with a spray nozzle
• Plush, high-GSM microfiber drying towels
• Automotive clay bar or clay mitt
• Clay lubricant or detailing spray
• A fine-cut, clear-coat-safe finishing polish
• Microfiber or foam applicator pads for polishing
• High-quality paint sealant, carnauba wax, or a dedicated ceramic coating
• Painter's tape (optional, for polishing)

Step 1: Proper Washing Technique

The first step in any detailing process is a thorough wash with automotive-safe products. This removes loose dirt and grime without instilling swirls or scratches in the clear coat.

Start by rinsing the entire hood with water. A pressure washer on a low setting or a gentle spray from a hose works well. This action removes the top layer of dust and debris, reducing the risk of scratching the surface during the contact wash.

Next, fill one bucket with your pH-neutral car wash solution and the other with plain water. Both buckets should contain a grit guard at the bottom.

Soak your microfiber wash mitt in the soapy water and begin washing the hood in straight, overlapping lines. Make sure to rinse the mitt in the plain water bucket between small sections. Do this before reloading the mitt with your soap. This method prevents dirt from contaminating your wash solution and dragging it back onto the hood’s surface.

Step 2: Drying and Inspection

Drying your carbon fiber hood correctly is just as important as washing it. Never let water air-dry on the surface, as this can leave stubborn mineral deposits and water spots.

Use a plush, clean microfiber drying towel. Gently lay the towel over the surface and pat it dry, or slowly drag the towel across the hood in one direction.

Avoid aggressive wiping or using old, contaminated towels. Once the hood is completely dry, inspect the surface under good lighting. Look for any remaining contaminants, light scratches, or swirl marks. This inspection will help you decide if the next steps, like claying or polishing, are necessary.

Step 3: Decontamination With a Clay Bar

Even after a good wash, contaminants can remain bonded to the clear coat. These particles make the surface feel rough and can interfere with the bonding of waxes or sealants. A clay bar treatment will safely remove them.

Spray a generous amount of clay lubricant or detailing spray onto a small section of the hood. Glide the clay bar over the lubricated area in straight lines with light pressure. You will feel the clay grabbing at first, but after a few seconds, it should glide smoothly as it picks up contaminants.

Fold the clay frequently to expose a clean surface. Wipe away any residue with a clean microfiber towel before moving to the next section. The result should be a surface that is perfectly smooth to the touch.

Step 4: Polishing for a Flawless Finish

Polishing restores gloss and clarity by removing fine scratches, swirl marks, and oxidation from the clear coat. For carbon fiber, it is best to apply a gentle, non-abrasive finishing polish by hand to prevent damage to the resin or weave.

Apply a small amount of polish to a foam or microfiber applicator pad. If you are working near sharp body lines or vents, you can use painter's tape to protect the edges.

Work the polish into the surface in small, circular, or straight-line motions with light, consistent pressure. Focus on a 2x2-foot section at a time. After a few passes, buff off the polish residue with a clean, soft microfiber towel to reveal a deep, brilliant shine.

Since this step removes a thin layer of the clear coat to remove the visible swirls, it should not be done every time the hood is cleaned. This is a step that can be taken every so often to rejuvenate the hood’s appearance and give it that fresh, new look.

Step 5: Applying Protection

With the surface perfectly clean and polished, the final step is to apply a protective layer. This shields the clear coat and underlying carbon fiber from UV rays, environmental fallout, and moisture.

A high-quality carnauba wax will provide a warm, deep gloss, while a synthetic paint sealant typically offers longer-lasting protection. Apply a thin, even coat using a clean applicator pad. Allow it to haze according to the product's instructions, then buff it off with a fresh microfiber towel.

For the highest level of durability and protection, a ceramic coating is an excellent choice. It creates a hard, hydrophobic layer that resists chemicals and UV damage for years. The application is more intensive and requires a pristine, decontaminated surface. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely for the best results.

Routine Maintenance and Common Mistakes

Consistent care is key. Wash your hood at least every two to four weeks or several times a year using the two-bucket method. Reapply your wax or sealant every few months, or as recommended by the product manufacturer.

Avoid these common mistakes:

• Washing in direct sunlight, which can cause soap and water to dry too quickly
• Using household cleaners, dish soap, or harsh chemicals
• Wiping a dry, dusty hood with a towel
• Going to automatic car washes with abrasive brushes
• Neglecting to protect the finish from UV exposure

When you park your vehicle for extended periods, storing it in a garage or under a quality car cover provides the best protection from sun, weather, and accidental damage. Periodically check that all mounting hardware for your hood is securely in place.

At WRXDaily, we focus on supplying quality aftermarket parts, including Subaru WRX carbon fiber hoods, to help enhance your WRX/STI’s performance and appearance. To keep your aftermarket hood in pristine condition, we recommend following these proven maintenance steps to protect your investment.

Ultimately, preserving the beauty and integrity of your carbon fiber hood is a rewarding process. By following these steps, you create a protective barrier and maintain that showroom shine. A consistent routine is the best way to clean and maintain a carbon fiber hood.