IRON SPOTS SHORTLY AFTER DELIVERY
This is more of an “immediately after delivery” item rather than than a “waiting room” item, but I thought those waiting for cars might want to look out for this.
A few days after I took delivery of my white SR+ (LFP), I decided to wash it. After the wash, I found thousands of iron spots on the horizontal surface of the trunk, the upper portions of the rear quarter panels (which are somewhat parallel to the ground), the painted surface along the glass roof, and some on the hood.
Luckily, I knew what it was and did not panic. I bought some iron remover and treated the affected areas multiple times, rinsing well between. After trying a Meguiar’s product (which worked reasonably well), I used an entire bottle of Iron X. If any of you have experience with Iron X, most times it requires only one or two treatments. I attach a close up photo of part of the trunk lid showing the spots, and a photo after the first application of iron remover. It turns color on contact with iron deposits. I think I got nearly all of them. I may treat again next time I decide to wax.
I was told that my car was transported from California to Florida partly by rail. I expect it was not well covered and rail dust settled on the vehicle, probably while it was damp. I did not see any spots when I took delivery. I believe a good rain here at home made them more visible. Given the significant dispersion of iron deposits on my car, the fact that it was garaged at home and work, and the very short time after delivery, I doubt this happened on my watch.
It is possible a new owner may not notice this right away, and may never notice it on a darker vehicle. If you run your hand over a wet car after it is washed, you can feel them. If you decide to apply iron remover yourself, I suggest you read the directions and warnings carefully.