Most people wax their car after every wash, which should typically be done every two weeks. While regularly waxing your vehicle is certainly a great way of preserving its paint, waxing it every two weeks can be a hassle and, in some cases, unnecessary.
The exact interval depends on several factors, but most people wax their car twice a year. If you keep your vehicle parked indoors, then you can get away with waxing your car less frequently. However, if you park your car outside, you’ll have to wax it more often. Constant exposure to the harsh winter climate and direct sunlight can cause the wax to wear off faster than usual.
One way to tell if your car needs waxing is by observing water droplets on its surface. A layer of wax causes water to bead up and roll away from the vehicle’s surface. If no beading occurs, this means your vehicle needs a new coat of wax.
Another way to tell is to run a finger across your car’s surface. A waxed car will feel much smoother, allowing your finger to glide across it. In contrast, an unwaxed surface will result in friction and prevent your finger from sliding.
Regularly waxing your car helps protect its paint. It preserves the transparent layer that sits on top of the vehicle’s paint. This paint sealant protects the paint from snow, rain, ultraviolet (UV) rays, and other corrosive elements that can damage the paint and cause fading, discoloration, and rust.
Aside from protecting the paint, waxing a car also has other benefits. Here are some examples:
Car wax acts as a protective barrier against minor scratches. It can also cause old marks to appear less visible, making your car body appear smoother.
Because car wax is hydrophobic, you’re less likely to deal with water spots forming on your vehicle. Water droplets will also bead up and roll off the surface, making it easier to clean your car.
Together with the paint sealant, car wax also protects your car paint from the sun’s harsh UV rays. Your vehicle’s paint is less likely to fade with regular waxing.
Because car wax protects against sun damage, helps the paint last longer, and repels dirt, you don’t typically don’t have to worry about paint damage or oxidation. These issues can be expensive to fix, so you’re saving a lot of money by simply waxing your car regularly.
Aside from the type of wax, here are other factors to consider when choosing a car wax:
Most waxes will work well with fresh car paint, but old or damaged paint can be a bit trickier. Consider using a wax with restorative properties if your car paint has already oxidized.
Some car waxes take more time and effort to apply, which can be a dealbreaker for others. Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to put in when applying car wax.
Go for a wax with great hydrophobic properties if you live in an area where it rains often. If you live somewhere hot, consider getting one with extra UV protection.
Unless you can commit to a regular waxing schedule, it might be best to stick to a type of wax that can last for months. Glossy waxes certainly look good, but you’ll have to reapply them more often.
Other detailing products can clash with your wax, preventing either product from working properly. Make sure to choose one that’s compatible with any other polishes you use.
The price of car wax can vary depending on several factors, such as the brand and your vehicle’s year, make, and model. When choosing one for your car, make sure to take your budget into account.
Don’t be afraid to search through forums and other websites to look for recommendations from other car enthusiasts. User reviews can also be helpful when choosing a wax for your car.
It’s best to go for an established brand when buying a car wax. Buying a cheap wax from a less reputable company might be cheaper, but you risk damaging your vehicle with their products.
Here are useful tips on how to apply car wax:
Aside from your chosen car wax, you’ll also need car wash soap, microfiber cloths, buffing towels, and a bucket of water.
When applying the wax, be sure to use a soft microfiber cloth or applicator pad that won’t scratch your car. Apply a small amount to the cloth, and work on one section at a time. Don’t forget to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the packaging.
Don’t buff the wax off just yet. Let the wax sit and haze over, which can take anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes. If you aren’t sure how long to wait, check the instructions on the packaging.
With a clean microfiber cloth, buff the wax off in circular motions. You might need several towels to make sure you get every nook and cranny of your car.
Give your car a good inspection under good lighting conditions. Check for any excess wax or streaks, and buff off any spots you might have missed.
Car wax can typically cost anywhere from $10 to $70, depending on several factors, such as your vehicle’s year, make, and model.
Hiring a professional to detail and wax your car for you can cost more, but it can save you a lot of time. You can expect to spend around $50 to $100 for this service.
Car wax isn’t the only way you can protect your car paint. Compared to car wax, paint sealant offers better protection against high temperatures, mud, and other debris. It gives off a crystal clear gloss and can also last months.
You can also opt for a ceramic coating, which can last years. Ceramic coating is made from a liquid polymer that hardens into a layer that covers your car paint. Compared to car wax and paint sealant, it offers superior protection against chemicals, scratches, and debris, but it’s also more expensive and harder to apply.
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.