Frustrating spots on paint

[mrj7500]

Detailing a 2009 Mazda 6 and I'm seeing spots on the paint after clay treatment, mainly in problem areas on rocker panels and wheel arches:


This is after two passes with the clay bar. Here's a closer shot:



and the closest shot:



Am I wasting my time thinking I can remove these prior to buffing? I would normally attack this with the PC, a LC white or maybe an orange pad. I'm not convinced I'm removing these completely, I don't want to be called out. I'd like to know how to remove these correctly. Thoughts appreciated!

[mrj7500]

Ohhh and I'd be using TSR followed up by finishing glaze.

[Kristopher1129]

Were they little bumps before you clayed?

They almost look like gypsy moth droppings. I see them a lot around here. Unfortunately I haven't found a quick easy way to get rid of them. I usually try various things and just go with what's working for me at that given time.

That's IF they are what I think they are. It's tough to tell from the photos.

[mrj7500]

They appear to be tar or possibly iron, especially since they are such close proximity to the areas were stuff could sling off the tires.

[Jhaight11]

do you feel anything if you put your fingernail on it? the top paint looks like tiny rock chips lol

[mrj7500]

Yeah, it's definitely sitting on top of the paint.

[Jhaight11]

idk how much difference a more aggressive clay makes but what clay are you using now?

[mrj7500]

I'm using clay magic blue. Thought about that, and if clay magic is too tame, any suggestions something more aggressive?

[Setec Astronomy]

I can't see any texture to the paint in the last two pics but I'm with the other poster that said they look like rock chips in the first pic.

[mrj7500]

After looking at those pics I agree they look more like rock chips than something sitting on the paint. here's one more pic I had, that I think shows it better: