Waxing your car with car wax is an essential part of car maintenance, but few people know how to do it well. This guide answers some of the most frequently asked questions new car owners have about applying car wax.
What does car wax do, exactly?
Car wax creates a barrier between your car’s paint and damaging substances like bird droppings and tree sap, protecting the paint. It also protects the paint from ultraviolet induced fading and reduces oxidation in the paint. Some of the newer waxes contain ingredients that also reduce the appearance of minute scratches in the car’s finish and clean the car. But the most visible effect is the creation of rich, deep color and a high shine.
How often will my car need a new coat of car wax?
Every two to three months, depending on the type of wax you use. Paste and liquid waxes last longer than spray waxes. The environment also matters: If you do not park under shelter, if the average temperature in your region is hot, if your car is exposed to a lot of droppings, tree sap, or blowing sand, or if your car’s finish faces any other kinds of abuse, you should apply wax more often. To tell for certain, watch how water beads on your car. If the drops are over half an inch wide or if the water forms sheets instead, your car needs another coat of wax.
What is the best way to wax a car?
First, wash and dry your car. The car should be absolutely dry before you start waxing. Water and wax do not mix. If you parked your car in the sun to dry it, move it to a shady spot and let it cool off before you start waxing, since heat can bake the wax onto the car, with ugly results.
If your car has detailing you do not want to wax, cover the parts with masking tape. Using a damp sponge, apply the car wax to the car. Small circles work best for older cars, and long strokes work best for new cars with the newer types of finish that are now on the market. Do not let extra wax get caught in the seams and joins of the exterior, and avoid waxing any dull plastic detailing. Follow the same path across the car to buff off the excess wax, using a lint free soft towel. When the excess wax is gone, get the softest cloth you can find and go over the car one last time to polish it. Remove the masking tape, and you are done!