Waxing a Brand New Car
What all the fuss is about
It’s shiny. It’s new. It gleams in the sunlight. Your brand new car. You have done hours of research to find just the right one, and now you have it. It’s yours. How do you keep it looking so nice? What’s all the fuss about waxing a new car? Why is it so important? When should you do it? And how should you do it?
Having the dealer or an auto body shop wax your car is always an option. This article is assuming that you are wanting to wax your vehicle yourself.
Why You Should Wax Your Car
You new beauty will be exposed to all the elements. While you are staying dry and clean sitting inside of it while cruising down the road, it is taking a beating. The elements don’t hold back – rain, snow, road salt, bugs, bird poop, the salty sea air (if you live close to the ocean), the list goes on. Your vehicle’s paint protects the metal body of the car from rust. The last thing you want to see on your new car is premature rust spots. Waxing regularly can prevent this. Applying wax 2-4 times a year is recommended. Waxing is not the same as washing. Down below are the basic steps to effectively wax your car.
How to Wax it Properly
Ask any car lover and they will tell you how they wax their car. With so many brands and products on the market there are several options. However, many will agree with the following basics:
- Wash – never use dish washing detergent. You need a properly pH balanced cleaner. Most advertised car washing detergents are suitable. This is a crucial step to remove loose debris and contaminants.
- Clean – once the initial wash is complete and your car is dry, it is time to inspect for stuck on debris. Tree sap, bird droppings, pollen, and brake dust may not come off with the initial wash. A good way to check is to rub your hand across the surface of your vehicle. If it feels gritty, grab a clay bar and rub it over the gritty parts. It’s a mild abrasive that is designed to effectively finish cleaning the cars surface.
- Polish – not everyone insists on this step and some lump it in with the cleaning step, but it is definitely not the same as applying wax. Applying a polishing coat is what will the paint have it’s shiny, reflective gleam. Some polishes help restore oils to the paint. Be careful not to remove dry polish as this can scratch the paint.
- Wax – This step is what protects the sheen, finish, and paint. It’s recommended to use a microfiber, but others may suggest another type of applicator. Apply the wax, let it sit as long as indicated on the bottle you use, and remove it in the order you applied it. Then repeat until the car is completely sealed.
We highly recommend following these steps in a shady area. If the sun is out and hot it can create water spots while washing and make it more difficult to avoid the polish or wax drying too quickly.
Waiting to Wax A New Car: Myth
Twenty-years ago you had to be careful that after purchasing a new car you didn’t wax it too soon. It was said that the paint solvents needed to dry and the paint needed to cure. Those days are over. These days factories cure the paint jobs before leaving for the dealership. You can wax your car as soon as you bring it home from the dealer without worrying about ruining anything.
It is highly recommended you, or a professional, wax your car as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more elements your car will be exposed to without being protected.
Conclusion
Waxing your new car is extremely important and the sooner the better. It is possible to do it yourself and recommended to do it 2-4 times a year. With a little more research and loving elbow grease you can keep your car’s exterior shiny, rust-free, and protected for years to come.
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