How to Remove Old Car Wax & Oxidation

Wash the car first to remove all surface contaminants.

If your car is looking dull, faded and the surface is chalky you may not have to spring for a new paint job. The problem may be old car wax buildup and oxidation. Oxidation occurs when UV rays and environmental elements dry the paint too much. Many people try to get the shine back by waxing the paint, but all this does is build up layers of wax. To remove old car wax and oxidation and get the gloss back to your paint it will take a few hours and some common materials.

Things You'll Need

• Car soap
• Sponge
• Water
• Liquid compound
• High-speed buffer
• Microfiber towels
• Car polish

Instructions

1. Wash the car with car soap and a sponge. Rinse the soap off and let the car dry completely. Park it in the shade so the surface is cool before starting any other steps.

2. Apply a quarter-size amount of liquid compound to the pad of a high-speed buffer. Begin at the front of the car and work towards the rear. Work the buffer in small circular motions as it turns. Apply more compound as needed.

3. Work the compound into the paint until you see the oxidation disappear. The surface will look better almost immediately. Don't keep the buffer in one place for more than 2 seconds at a time or it can burn through the paint.

4. Polish the car with car polish and a microfiber towel by hand. Work the polish in small circular motions until it disappears into the paint.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't put pressure on the buffer when using liquid compound or it can burn through the paint.