Waxing your car is a crucial step in maintaining its appearance and protecting its paint. But how often should you do it? This guide will help you understand the frequency of waxing your car, the types of car wax available, and the best practices for waxing.
Why Should You Wax Your Car?
Car wax and paint sealants are a temporary protective layer for your vehicle’s paint. It helps protect your paint against UV rays from the sun, contaminants like dirt and brake dust, and it helps provide a hydrophobic layer so rain and water can run off and helps reduce water spots.
Types of Car Wax
There are several types of car wax, each with unique properties and mostly differ in longevity and material makeup. There are usually two different approaches to follow when it comes to wax. Choosing your wax may come down to your environment, the type of paint you have, and whether your vehicle is a daily driver or your fun weekend cruiser.
Carnauba Wax: The traditional and old school paint protection known for its deep, natural shine and protection and can last up to 2 months.
Synthetic Wax: Offers long-lasting protection and is easier to apply and can last up to 6 months and can include more high performance ingredients like SiO2 and Graphene and out performs most carnauba waxes in every way. The only visible difference is synthetic wax can look cooler in appearance while carnauba waxes have a nice warm glow to them.
In today’s world of detailing you can find waxes that combine the properties of carnauba wax and synthetic wax to try and capitalize on the benefits of each. Overall, choose the one you want to work with or feel comfortable using.
Different Car Wax Formats
Just like there are many types of waxes there are also many formats of wax. Each format has its pluses and minuses and each brand has their player in the game. It comes down to what you want in your wax and what type of application experience you want.
Liquid Wax: Easy to apply but may not last as long as other forms.
Paste Wax: Old school wax in a tin or round container that provides a nice glowing finish but can be more challenging to apply.
Spray Wax: Convenient and fast application and can be used in different ways to apply protection to your vehicle including a dry application, a rinse off, or as a drying aid when you are towel drying your car. Most longer term protection waxes come in this format.
Just like the type of wax you are using, choosing the application method is really a personal choice. Many old school gearheads like the paste wax application as it brings them back to the golden years and many new school car enthusiasts may choose the spray method. Either way they can be effective and are still better than not adding in protection to your vehicle’s paint.
What Car Waxes Last the Longest?
Synthetic waxes generally last the longest. They are engineered to provide a strong protective layer over your car's paint, lasting several months and some claim to last as long as 6 months.. Carnauba wax, while offering a rich shine, typically needs more frequent applications due to its natural composition and natural durability of about 8 weeks. For a show car or weekend toy a carnauba wax may be the best fit as it traditionally has the best shine and gloss and is super click to the touch. If you are waxing your daily driver you may want to choose a synthetic wax with ceramic ingredients for more durable protection that will last 6 months or so and provides excellent water beading and resistance to salt and other contaminants.
What is the Best Way to Wax a Car?
The best way to wax a car involves a few key steps but we also recommend doing this whol process in a shaded or garaged area. The sun can play hell with washing and waxing a car and it is best to remove that variable if you can. Here are our steps to waxing a car that we find will help you.
- Wash Your Car: Use a high quality car shampoo and thoroughly wash the entire vehicle with a microfiber wash mitt.
- Dry Your Car: Water is the nemesis of most waxes and paint protection so thoroughly dry your car with a drying towel or leaf blower. Make sure to dry your mirrors and door jambs completely so they do not drip as you start your next steps.
- Clay Bar: If your paint has a lot of contaminants, take some time to clay bar it. If you are unsure if you need to clay your paint take a plastic sandwich bag and put her hand in it. Then gently wipe your paint and you will feel any embedded contaminants if there are any. If you feel these little bumps or your paint sound like sandpaper start claying. You will be amazed on how smooth and silky paint can feel after a good decontamination clay!
- Apply the Wax: Use a foam or microfiber applicator, following the manufacturer's instructions. We suggest working a panel at a time to make sure you do not miss any areas. Follow the wipe off recommendations by the manufacturer and test the process in a small area before doing the entire car, truck, or SUV.
- Buff: After the wax dries to a haze, buff it off with a microfiber towel. We really like high quality microfibers that are soft and won’t cause marring or scratches as your wipe off the wax.
- Inspect: Check for an even coat and reapply if necessary.
What Do You Need to Wax Your Car?
To wax your car, you'll need a few things. Below are the typical items needed to apply and remove your wax. You will also need your car washing supplies like car shampoo, wash mitts, and a drying towel as well as a clay bar if needed.
- Car wax of your choice.
- A foam applicator or pad.
- Microfiber towels for buffing.
- A clean, shaded area to work in.
Can You Wax a Car Too Much?
Yes, waxing a car too much can lead to a buildup of wax, which can dull the paint's appearance. It's generally recommended to wax your car every three to four months, depending on the type of wax used and your driving conditions.
How Long Does a Car Wax Last?
The longevity of car wax depends on various factors, including the type of wax, environmental conditions, and how the car is used. Generally, carnauba wax can last up to 8 weeks, while synthetic waxes can last up to 6 months.
How Do I Know If My Car Needs Wax?
To determine if your car needs wax, perform the water bead test. Splash water on the surface; if the water forms tight beads, the wax is still effective. If the water spreads out or sheets, it's time to reapply wax.
Waxing your car is an essential part of its maintenance. By understanding the types of wax available and their properties, you can make an informed decision on the best wax for your vehicle and how often to apply it. Regular waxing not only enhances your car's appearance but also provides a protective layer against environmental elements, ensuring the longevity of your car's paint.
