That's why I think it's an acid of some sort. Detailers often use an acid solution to clean really bad wheels that have heavy brake dust. Someone may have confused that spray bottle for the glass cleaner. Either way, you would have noticed that prior to dropping it off. The detail shop should step up and take care of this for you.

 

I'm not sure if that's the case here...his is only isolated on the glass. If your theory was correct, there would be the same marks on the paint as well.

 

Definitely looks like some kind of chemical reaction. If it is due to acid, for the etching to reach that extent it would have had to be highly concentrated and left to sit undisturbed for a considerable amount of time. I don't think it could be due to sparks from metal grinding, those embers usually cool within a fraction of second- a tech can basically shower in them without any harm to himself or clothing.

 

what was the outcome ?

 

the detailer wouldn't own up to it and i ended up selling the car to another member so hopefully he had better luck than i did. lesson learned, make sure to do a thorough walk around after leaving the car with anyone.

 

Another reason why a private, and well known detailer will always work out best I still wonder what it could of been...

 

Thought I'd chime in here. I bought C4SxM5's car. The etching is still there. Upon closer inspection, the spots are on the outside of the glass. I can feel the marks when I gently rub a finger across the windshield. At first, it didn't really bother me as I thought you could only see it in certain light. But of course, now I know it's there, I see it all the time.

If a windshield replacement is the only fix, I suppose I'll just live with it rather than pay what is surely a hefty price tag for new glass. Any other ideas?