So I finally get my car back today from the shop after not having it for 6 days. I get in and the windows are slightly fogged up. I thought it was because I was just not used to my car. But my sensation that something was wrong never really went away. So i'm thinking that since it has been sitting in a shop for 6 days there is some kind of crap all over my car. This sucks. I scraped some of it off with my finger nails and the windshield wipers are making tracks in it but a rag w/soap and water aint doing the job. Anyone ever had this problem? Know any simple solutions. Windex doesn't work. I tried that. I think I need a chemical.

This blows, i'm so pissed.

Make them clean, wax, polish...

is this common?

is this common?In my experience, yes. Unless the shop is kept as clean as an operating room, there's always going to be dust, oil and solvent mist, etc that is floating around. Gotta wonder about the mechanics' lungs in 30 years.
Make them clean, wax, polish...Hahaha. I'd love to watch that discussion.

In my experience, yes. Unless the shop is kept as clean as an operating room, there's always going to be dust, oil and solvent mist, etc that is floating around. Gotta wonder about the mechanics' lungs in 30 years.
Hahaha. I'd love to watch that discussion.

I just don't want permanent damage to my car's finish. It's already faded as it is. It's just annoying when you pay a crapload of money for a job and your car comes back less appealing.

I spray washed it immediately after getting it because I figured it would come off. I might scrub wash it this morning.

So will this residue come off eventually without causing significant damage?

Hahaha. I'd love to watch that discussion.

Depends on the shop. Many will just do it if you call them on it. Some will argue but give in. I've made the DOT wash tar off my car from the roads.

...and the conclusion of our story.

Took the car back to the shop. Said there is a film on my windows. He said I have something for that. Brought out a can of Lacquer Thinner and got most of it off. It was black and he had no idea what it was. He said they had a car in there that was burning oil like crazy. So that was probably what it was. He then put on some glass cleaner. I'm just glad my windows aren't permanently damaged.