Waxing 101

If you have ever gone into an auto supply store and dared to walk down the wax aisle, you already know there is an abundance of waxing and polishing products on the market. In case you might need a crash course in paint protection before your next shopping adventure, here are the answers to some questions you might have about the Wonderful World of Waxes.

How often do I need to wax?

Ask 10 people and you will get 10 different answers. That is, because, like many aspects of car care, the most accurate answer is, “It depends.” Some factors to consider are the environment where you live including exposure to acid rain, birds, tree sap, ocean air, etc., whether the car is kept outdoors or in a garage, how often the car is washed, and the color and condition of the paint.

Some people recommend waxing when water beads larger than a quarter or even a nickel. Others will instruct you to run your finger over the paint and if it squeaks, it is time to wax it. For those who prefer a timetable approach, it is recommended you wash your car weekly, wax every 1 to 2 months and polish 2 to 3 times per year.

One thing you should try is perpetual waxing. The idea is to wax a different section of the car each time you wash it. This way the car is always being waxed.

Another tip if you are short on time is to wax the “flat” parts of the car’s paint, meaning the hood, roof, and trunk. This is where bird droppings, tree sap, and rain are most likely to adversely affect the paint. It’s better to wax some of the car than none of it!

What is the difference between a polish and a wax?

Despite what the Turtle Wax people tell you, there is a difference! A polish uses mild abrasives to bring out the car’s color and shine and give a smooth finish. Polishes instill oils and conditioners into the paint to create a glossy finish. A wax protects the areas you have polished.

What should I look for in a wax?

The ingredient you want to look for in a good, quality wax is “carnauba wax”. It is a very hard, natural wax that gives you the hardest protection while still being a natural product that will not react with or damage your paint.

Because it is a natural wax, it can expand and contract and is said to allow the paint to “breathe”. Products with carnauba wax will often have petroleum distolates to soften this naturally hard wax and make it easier to apply.

Waxes that contain Teflon are of no help in protecting your car’s paint according to DuPont, its manufacturer. Leave the Teflon to the frying pans in the kitchen.

Also, you might want to avoid products that are polymers, such as NuFinish. These coat your paint, layer, and eventually will yellow, requiring a separate cleaner to remove these layers. There is a reason they say these polymer products last a year between waxings, and it is not necessarily the best for your car’s paint.

A combination product (one that combines a cleaner and wax, or similar) are fine for those who are short on time or patience. Many die-hard car lovers will disagree, but I personally feel a lower quality wax is better than no wax.

If you have a newer car, you might also want to make sure the product states it is safe for clear coat finishes. Most new cars have this clear, thin layer of urethane and acrylic over the paint layer to protect it’s color and finish.

What is better — liquid or paste?

This is a matter of preference. While pastes offer the best protection, you may find it difficult or cumbersome to apply. However, what you sacrifice in ease of application with a liquid is the durability and protection from your wax, which may leave you waxing more frequently.