Car wax is a hardy layer that protects your paint from contaminants and UV rays.
Synthetic formulas are even touted to be able to last for months at a time.
However, waxes cannot last as long as ceramic coatings, which can last up to 12 months.
Ceramic coatings, however, are a lot more expensive and can only be applied by professional detailers.
Car waxes, however, have a warmer and more natural glow to them.
This is why they are preferred by many detailing enthusiasts.
If you’re also a wax fan, here are a few tips to making that coat last longer.
1) It all starts with proper application!
Wax lasts long when it has a chance to bond with your paintwork.
It also needs some time to cure.
To ensure that your car wax bonds properly, you need to correctly prep the surface.
Wash your car thoroughly and dry it. Run your fingers over the paintwork.
If you feel rough patches, you will need to clay the paint first.
When the paint surface is clean, the car wax will be able to form a strong bond with it.
If not, the next car wash or heavy thunderstorm will be enough to strip it!
2) Use a wax-friendly shampoo and avoid strong cleaners.
The worst thing you can do to your car is to wash your vehicle with dishwashing soap.
Dish soap is extremely effective at removing wax!
Instead, use specially formulated car shampoos, which can clean without stripping wax.
Avoid using fallout remover or traffic film removers as these can strip your layer of protection (unless formulated not to).
3) Use a quick detailer!
One way to boost wax protection is to use a quick detailer.
Quick detailers are lubricating formulas designed to remove stuff like dirt and bird poop.
Many quick detailers today are also formulated to complement the car wax on the paintwork.
They enhance the wax’s hydrophobic properties, thereby helping the surface better resist contaminants.
4) Use a quick/spray wax after washing your car.
Detailing enthusiasts love doing this at it lets them wax their ride in very little time.
A product such as Autoglym’s Rapid Aqua Wax lets you spray it on your wet car.
You save time by waxing as you dry.
5) Top-up by adding another proper coat!
Obviously, the best way to prolong the wax layer already on your car is to top it up.
As usual, you must perform proper surface prep (yes, even if there’s an existing layer of wax).
Remember to apply thin and even coats to ensure uniform coverage.
Do not fall into the “more is better” mindset by piling on the product.
This does not work!
On the contrary, it makes your job more difficult because thicker layers are harder to remove.
You also run the risk of smearing the product all over your car.
