How to Wax a Car

Car waxing is one of the most impactful steps you can take to maintain your vehicle. This exterior layer adds a sheen and protects your paint job, and those with custom colors will benefit the most. 

Learning how to wax a car can seem intimidating since it’s a big job. However, it’s much more straightforward than you’d think. You can invest in a waxing service to get the job done, but you can easily do it yourself.

Do You Need to Wax Your Car?

Car waxing is an optional but highly recommended step for all drivers. It gives your vehicle a shiny exterior and makes a strong impression. The extra layer also protects your paint job. Certain products are engineered to provide UV protection and water and scratch resistance.

Waxing your car remains popular, although younger car owners view their vehicle as a necessity rather than an accessory, which means they are more likely to forgo car wax. However, it’s still a viable maintenance step if you want to keep up appearances and protect your vehicle.

How Often Should You Wax Your Car?

Like many other car maintenance practices, you don’t wax your car just once. Some drivers take the time to do it twice a year. However, you should do it three to four times a year in hot weather. It usually breaks down the product, so you must build it back up.

Another way to tell if it’s time to wax your car is to give it the old finger test. Put it through the car wash and let it dry. Move your fingers gently over the paint job. If the wax is still intact, it should glide pretty easily. If it’s a little rough, you should have a rewaxing session. 

What Tools Do You Need to Wax Your Car?

If you want to wax your car by hand, the main tools are wax and a towel. Others like to invest in a buffer. Most auto shops use a rotary polisher to apply the wax, but these industrial tools are more expensive. They also require precision and experience since wrong handling can result in swirl marks and scratches all over the car.

Instead, use orbital buffers for DIY car waxing. Their more controllable circular motion removes the risks of a rotary buffer. Pair these with a soft and clean buffing pad for even wax application.

You have two main car wax options — paste and liquid. Paste car wax is known for its exceptional shine and durability. However, it’s challenging to work with, especially with a harder formula. Newer drivers may want to go with liquid car wax instead.

Liquid car wax has a thinner consistency, making it easy to apply even by hand. Some brands offer it in a spray bottle. It seems to be in more demand than paste wax in the market. The only downside is applying it more frequently since it’s not as long-lasting. 

How Do You Prep the Car for Waxing?

Prep the car for waxing by washing it. A clean vehicle can handle multiple layers of product and enhance longevity. Some drivers may prefer going through a car wash, but you can easily wash it at home with mild soap and water. Make sure to clean every surface and crevice where the wax will go.

You must also fix the car scratches and damaged paint for a smooth finish. Even if you think your automobile is pristine, inspect it for dullness. Add polishing compound to ensure a softer layer. 

Lastly, give the car a quick clay bar treatment. These products capture contamination that previous steps haven’t removed. You can order them online or invest in synthetic clay mitts for a more reusable tool. 

How to Wax a Car by Hand

Waxing a car by hand is one of the most popular methods of making your vehicle shine. It’s how generations of drivers have taught and bonded with one another. Here’s how to do it:

• Add wax to foam applicator: Most car wax has a foam applicator to apply the product. If yours doesn’t, look for a clean sponge and dampen it. Make sure to use small amounts to minimize gunk and buildup. 

• Apply car wax: Apply the wax as evenly as possible. Use gentle pressure to ensure the product is transferred from the applicator to the vehicle. If you’re using a liquid, spray it on in sections and spread it with the sponge after.

• Use a buffing cloth: Buffing is an important part of waxing to work in the product and clear out residue. Use firm car buffing towels. Some people may use microfiber cloths, but they may be too absorbent and strip the wax away before it sets.  

How to Wax a Car With a Buffer

An orbital buffer with a buffing pad is a quick way to give your car shine since it waxes and buffs simultaneously. However, you must be careful when handling it. Here’s what the process looks like:

• Add a light coat on the pad: Add a light coat of wax to the buffing pad. Flex the material and work it into the pores. Once you have an even distribution, add the pad to the orbital buffer and plug it in.

• Hold the buffer: It’s important to familiarize yourself with your tool before taking it to your vehicle. Hold it and ensure it feels comfortable in your hand. The cord should hang over one shoulder so you can easily move around. 

• Apply car wax: Put a few drops onto the pad of the orbital buffer. Move the polisher downward and keep it at the lowest speed setting possible. Use low pressure, let your machine spin and apply the wax.

Other Car Waxing FAQ

Car waxing is as simple as applying the product to your vehicle, but several things must be considered for a smoother application session. 

1. Where Should You Wax Your Car?

Wax your car under a roof. Doing it directly under sunlight can affect the quality of the wax and make it apply unevenly. Allowing the product to dry can also make the removal and aftercare process more challenging. You don’t want to scrape it off since this will ruin the paint job, so avoid waxing in hot and humid climates. 

2. Can You Wax the Car Right After Washing?

Waxing the car after washing may seem like a good idea since it’s still relatively cold from the water. However, the wetness can make it hard for the wax to adhere and waste the product. You must wait for the car to dry before adding wax, removing scratches and using a clay bar.

3. What Parts of the Car Should Be Waxed?

Wherever your paint job goes, the car wax goes. Most people like to start with the hood because of its large surface area, splitting it into two sections. If this is your first time, you can do this in four sections, too. 

Afterward, you can work on the doors and crevices. Avoid the windows and windshield. If you accidentally get wax on them, a water and vinegar mix should be able to melt it off and provide visibility. 

4. Should You Add Car Wax Before or After Sealant?

Sealants are optional, but they are a good step to make the surface smoother for the car wax. Plus, they are highly resistant to external materials, which is a good layer of protection for your automobile’s paint job. Use car wax after sealant. 

Ensure the products are compatible, as some sealants don’t work with car wax. Seek recommendations from other driving enthusiasts. Remember to give your sealant time to cure before waxing.

5. What Are Other Car Waxing Mistakes to Avoid? 

One of the main car waxing mistakes is adding too many layers. You don’t have to add multiple coats and wait for them to shine, as they usually do after drying. Remember to use only one to two layers of wax. 

You should also spread the product as evenly as possible. Section out the car and focus on one area at a time. Remember to swap out cloths or pads as needed, especially when working with paste car wax. It tends to dry up and get flaky, so you must be careful. 

Underrated Car Waxing Tips

You may already know how to wax a car, but there are still a couple of tips and tricks to become even better at it. Consider this advice.

1. Always Take Your Time

Many people feel they need to rush things, but you must learn to be patient with waxing. It can take a while, especially for pickup trucks and other bigger models. Divide it into sections, bring out a big water jug and clear your schedule. 

2. Read the Product Instructions

Make sure to read the product instructions. While all car waxes provide similar results and have the same application process, some may benefit from alterations. You should also check the orbital buffer’s details. Compare models and needs, and look up how to toggle the speed setting before application. 

3. Consider the Car’s Finish

Waxing provides cars with a glossy finish. However, if you have a matte finish, you should opt for ceramic. Matting agents maintain 54.1% of the coating and paint industry market share. Shiny products can create a reflective appearance that will affect your vehicle’s look. 

4. Pay Attention to Aftercare

Use a microfiber cloth after buffing to remove residue. Use gentle circular motions when cleaning it up. You can use distilled water and a dash of rubbing solution if there’s any streaking. Shake and mist it onto the impacted area before wiping it off with the microfiber cloth again.

Maintaining Your Car’s Shine

After waxing your car, the last thing you want is to dull its shine. Here are several preventive measures to ensure the product lasts.

1. Drive Mindfully

A shiny car stays beautiful when it doesn’t have any dents. Remember to drive mindfully and remove hindrances from your windshield, such as dried wax, bird droppings and water marks. Windshield wiper blades last six to 12 months, depending on how often you use the car, so replace them when needed. 

2. Park in the Garage

Remember how you want to avoid waxing under the hot and bright sun? You still want to minimize exposure afterward to keep the product as long as possible. Rain and other extreme weather conditions can break them down. Park your car in the garage or in the shade when in public. 

3. Wash Your Car Regularly

Even after you wax your car, you still want to ensure it’s washed regularly. About one in five drivers have not cleaned their vehicle within the last three months, and some can’t even remember when they last did so. You should wash your car at least once every two weeks. Set reminders on your phone and keep your schedule free. 

4. Reapply as Needed

Car wax doesn’t last forever — record when you’ve applied it and make a note to reapply it after three months or so. Check whether the slip and shine are still on the vehicle, and postpone or advance the reapplication as needed. 

Learn How to Wax a Car

Understanding how to wax a car is quite a rewarding milestone for a driver, so pat yourself on the back. Remember to be mindful throughout the process, especially when doing it for the first time. Apply and keep the sheen on until it’s time to refresh your beauty.