Learning how to wax your car isn’t hard to do, but it’s definitely very important. If you live in colder parts of the country and even if you don’t, wax can protect your car, truck or van. Waxing and cleaning your car keeps your paint looking great and helps you maintain a good level of car care. When you want to learn the basics to wax your car, this guide can help you figure out the best method to protect your car’s exterior.
No matter where you live there are always challenges to your car or truck’s paint and finish. Salt, sand and various forms of precipitation all take their toll on the finish of your car. If you make it a habit to tuck your car away for the winter under a car cover, you’re best served to clean and prepare your car or truck every spring.
Not only does spring cleaning and waxing make your car look it’s best for the summer, it can also increase your car value. Your car or truck will be worth more through a trade-in and have more resale value when it’s looking it’s best.
You can keep your car looking great when you know how to wax your car properly. Before you wax your car however it’s a good idea to match the type of wax to the paint of your car. There are many different waxes out there on the market, one of the most popular is carnauba wax. Here are the steps to make your car look it’s best.
Steps to Wax your Car
Prepare to wax your car – Set up an area that’s protected by shade, and stay away from any location frequently by birds. Begin polishing and waxing in the day early enough so that it’s not overly hot as you begin your work.
Wash and Dry – Washing your car or truck is a must before waxing or polishing. Whether your car has a brand new paint job, or one that needs some help, using the best car soap to wash your vehicle is key. Begin with the roof and work your way down as you wash and thoroughly clean your car.
When you are done make sure to dry your car completely. Use a microfiber cloth to make sure that there’s no dust particulates that can cause swirl marks in your paint.
Lay down wax – The process of waxing your car is much more than just laying down a layer of wax. Use a clean, damp sponge or an applicator to put down a first thin layer of wax. As you put down a thin layer, keep in mind that the wax or silicone content in the wax will add a layer of protection to your paint.
Own a newer car with clear coat or a base coat finish? Make sure to use the right car wax. Using the wrong kind of automotive wax can actually dull your clear coat as opposed to protect and enhance it.
If your applicator removes some paint as you apply a layer of wax, don’t be alarmed. When paint comes off as you apply wax, it’s the dull and oxidized layer of paint that’s coming up. Once that oxidized layer of paint has been removed, the fresh finish of paint underneath it is ready to shine and impress.
When applying your layer of wax, avoid any black plastic trim parts or molding. Give your thin layer of wax time to dry and haze properly. This time gives the wax and silicone time to bond to your paint.
Shine and Polish – Now it’s time to buff the wax or polish off your paint. To get that showroom shine, begin by buffing your car in a linear fashion rather than circular movements. When you wax your car in this manner, it can take some more time but it pays off in the end.
If you are using a non-abrasive car wax or polish, you can opt to use a power buffer. However make sure the buffer bonnet and surface is clean and fresh to prevent scratches and swirl marks.
Protect – Maintain that shine after you wax your car, by parking your car under a carport or in your garage. You can also choose to use a car cover, which can cut down on the dirt and grime that can build up on your car.
You can hose off the dirt and grit that builds up over time. Never dry or wipe down your car or truck after it rains. Maintain your car and the layer of wax that’s protecting it by watching for the way water beads off your paint.
People often ask the question how often should you wax your car, and the answer is subjective but a good rule of thumb is when it doesn’t bead water anymore. When your car no longer beads water in the same manner, it’s time to wax your car again.
Have any questions about our guide on how to wax your car? Leave us a comment below and let us know!
