Can I use this before painting or clear coating?

Yes. This works well as a final decontamination step before any paint or coating application. Wipe thoroughly with clean towels after use to remove all residue, then follow your paint prep protocol.

Will this damage my clear coat or factory paint?

No. The formula is designed to be safe on automotive finishes. Test on an inconspicuous area first if you're concerned, but it's made for regular detailing without risk of stripping or dulling clear coat.

How much do I need per application?

A little goes a long way. Apply a small amount to the surface, let it sit briefly to break down contaminants, then wipe clean. One container handles multiple full-vehicle details depending on how heavily contaminated your paint is.