Im not suprised you had problems getting it inspected, you should have driven over to oak cliff or some place like that and I bet they would have passed ya easier.
I usually take it to a local detail shop here and let them do it, but if Im feeling extra good I do it myself. I am a big fan of meguires when doing it myself. I did read recently some rave reviews on the turtle wax Ice stuff or whatever that new crap is called. I will have to get me some of...
I would check with the guys over at www.chevyclub.org for your cobalt parts. I usually order from them vs gmpartsdirect because while the prices are usually just a few dollars more the shipping is usually alot less. Ive had good luck with calling Brandon there in the shop when I needed help...
I am Max and thought Id introduce myself and see what the cobalt forum is like. It looks like a cool site, so I look forward to making myself at home here.