What is the best way to clean the plastic chrome grilles on the front of the newer Jags (see above picture) that get hard water deposits and grime coatings on the inside portions? The gaps are only about 1 inch between so last time I sprayed it with an all purpose cleaner and ran a microfiber cloth through each slot with the end of a wooden spoon. It did not remove the hard water spots and it took forever. There has to be a better way!

BTW, this is PLASTIC with a chrome finish so I'm reluctant to use any abraisive material or hard brushing as I'm worried about scratches or removing the chrome coating.

 

I would try taking the grill out and washing it in some warm soapy water using a soft brush, then dry with some compressed air.

Not sure about the MY08 cars but the grill on most older Jags comes out pretty easily, just a few screws.

 

I would recommend using a Daytona Speed Master Jr. Wheel Brush . The Daytona Speed Master Jr. Wheel Brush features nylon Nylex bristles that are both flexible and durable. The end of each bristle is feathered to provide an extra gentle touch on delicate finishes. Perfect for cleaning tight areas like a grille.

 

I have both the regular and Jr. speed master brushes and they are excellent. Not sure if even the Jr. will get into the small openings of the mesh grill though? The mini Wheel Woolie is great too. Either of these with some warm soapy water will do the trick.

The other reason I like taking the grill out is being able to clean the backside of the grill and more importantly, vacuum out any of debris that accumulates in front of the rad. An important consideration, especially on older Jags

 

I just got both regular and junior Daytona brushes a few days ago. I'm going to try it out tomorrow and I will report back. I will also take a look at what is involved in removing the top grille. The bottom one just pulls out by hand so that should be easy!

Did I mention that the forcast for tomorrow is 75 degrees and sunny! It's been like spring here for the past few weeks.

 

The Daytona Jr. worked very well. I was able to get about 70# of the hard water spots off. I'm going to use a stronger dilution level for my all purpose cleaner and that should get the rest of the water spots completely removed.

Removing the front grille on the X358 looks farily involved as there is a plastic cover that runs along the front of the engine bay that covers the headlights and radiator area. I'm not sure it's worth the time to take it all apart just for a cleaning when either way you must run the brush through each opening anyway.