Author Topic: Baked Water Spots (?) on Bonnet  (Read 1310 times)

Offline Kechos

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Baked Water Spots (?) on Bonnet
« on: 14 June 2026, 17:18 »
2017 GTI - I have some hazing across the bonnet which I've been trying to ignore.
However, after cleaning the car and the marks immediately re-appearing I'd like to get it sorted.

A few things I'm wondering:

Could this be water spotting that's now baked into the paint? I do usually dry the car so not sure if this is from where the sun has beaten me to it.
Could prolonged UV exposure be breaking down the clear coat on the black paint?
Is this something that can be fixed with a machine polish or clay bar, or is it deeper than that?

Some good previous discussions here but want to know what I'm dealing with before doing anything that might make it worse.
Depending on complexity I can try DIY or get it detailed.




Offline MinchCS

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Re: Baked Water Spots (?) on Bonnet
« Reply #1 on: 15 June 2026, 17:34 »
That looks like clear coat failure. My first port of call would be a detailer to see if they can improve it but it may require spraying.
Has the bonnet been resprayed in the past?
2017 black Clubsport S

Offline Kechos

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Re: Baked Water Spots (?) on Bonnet
« Reply #2 on: 20 June 2026, 15:49 »
Damn, was really hoping it wouldn't be the clear coat failing.
Hasn't been resprayed to my knowledge, but only had the car a couple of years.

Any ideas if it's salvageable with a pro or is this now a losing battle?

Offline MinchCS

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Re: Baked Water Spots (?) on Bonnet
« Reply #3 on: 28 June 2026, 21:01 »
Tricky to be sure form photos, but a detailer would be pushed to correct that I suspect. But worth asking and getting a proper diagnosis.
2017 black Clubsport S