Is it safe to use Zep Citrus on an Opti-Coated surface?

I know that Opti-Coat is a very durable product, but is it safe to use a strong degreaser, such as Zep Citrus, on an Opti-Coated car? The reason I ask is that every surface (paint, glass, trim, and wheels) of my GTI is Opti-Coated. And it hasn't been washed since August, when I applied the Opti-Coat. It has spent that entire time parked outdoors as well, so needless to say it is very, very dirty. I would try to do an ONR wash on it but honestly there's so much dirt and grime built up on it I'd rather do a regular wash on it. Normally when dealing with a very dirty car I'll mix in some Zep Citrus with my car wash soap, as well as foam it (using a fertilizer sprayer) with Zep Citrus. I'm detailing on a budget so the Zep was a great cost-efficient addition to my small collection, but I know it's very strong, and just wanted to make sure it wouldn't have a negative effect on the durability of my Opti-Coat.

It will be interesting to see how the Opti-Coat has held up to not being maintained in any way, even though I've done a couple write-ups on my own car I might have to do another one to report on the Opti-Coat.

 

It wouldnt surprise me if the Opti-Coat held up against the Zep citrus,HOWEVER, it is some pretty strong cleaner. And for the price and time it takes to do a complete Opti-Coat on a car,I personally would not risk it. I would probablly stick to your favorite wash soap and slightly up the concentration. And hit it hard with the powerwasher. My 2 cents for what its worth.

 

Go with the least aggressive method........ then work from there.

 

What he said.

I think you'll be surprised at how well opti-coat sheds dirt without using a degreaser.

But, that being said, if using one compromised the product, then somethings wrong.
The way this stuff stands up to Dawn/touchless car washes, you shouldn't have a
problem at all.

optimum-opti-coating-durability-test-review

 

MPL and AGHD have both held up to zep orange when I mix 6:1, but it doesnt hurt to take it safe and not use it.

 

^^^ Good to know. I use all 3 of those products frequently. Thanks!

 

Zep cuts through road grime like no ones business, I drive between NC and Boston quite a bit and every single trip it rains, mix it light, spray the whole vehicle then pressure rinse and foam, works wonders.

 

You'll be fine. I have done it before.

Plus the only way to remove opti coat is with abrasives. Think of it as a second clear coat.

 

I agree, when the first testing came out one of the Original testers only washed his car with dawn and jet washes.... typically both of those are stronger then Zep so I think you are safe