How to Wax & Buff Car Paint

Waxed cars are well protected against the elments

Waxing car paint is very beneficial to the exterior surface of the vehicle. The wax creates a protective layer between the car's paint job and the elements, including sun and UV exposure, rain, snow and pollution. The wax will also help to prevent paint oxidation. Wax should be removed by buffing the waxed surface to a shine. Buffing ensures that the wax coat is even over the whole vehicle and also makes the paint sparkle and shine like it did when it was new.

Things You'll Need

• Car wash
• Car wax
• Car wax applicator pad
• Terry cloth rags or an electric buffer

Instructions

1. Wash your car by hand or by running it through an automatic car wash. Washing by hand allows you to clean every painted surface well before applying the wax coat. Dry the car's exterior with multiple towels to reduce streaking caused by hard water mineral deposits.

2. Apply car wax with the pad applicator included with the waxing product. The wax should be applied in a circular motion. Wax the whole painted surface at the same time. Allow the wax to dry to a dull haze.

3. Buff the wax off the car using one of two methods: terry cloth rags or an electric buffer. Using either method will provide you with the desired results, but an electric buffer will make the job go faster and will be easier to accomplish.

4. Apply a second and third coat of wax and buff these coats off of the car's surface in the same manner as explained above. Extra coats of wax will provide more protection and will last longer than just one coat.

References

• Turtle Wax: Car Wax FAQs
• Turtle Wax: Waxing and Polishing