How Often Should You Wax Your Vehicle”?

It was in the ‘80’s when manufacturers vastly improved the exterior look of a vehicle by adding a clear coat finish that sealed the underneath paint.  It is the clear coat that gives cars such a nice shine, and also offers protection from environmental factors such as salt, ultraviolet light, dirt, and rain.  

By waxing, we can protect the clear coat, and thereby the paint, and help to preserve the oils in the paint that prevent oxidation and discoloring.  Although the question on how often you should wax can vary from expert to expert.  Generally the recommendation seems to be four times a year but twice a year probably works with a couple of sprayed wax applications in-between times.  You can do the “bead test” on your car’s exterior, which simply involves seeing how well water beads on the surface rather than forming large sheets of water.   This tells you whether there is still a layer of wax on the surface.

Some of the duration of the wax depends on how the car is stored and the type of climate it faces.  A vehicle parked in a garage is better protected than one that sits outside all the time.  Then there is the question as to what type of wax to use and how important the look of a shiny exterior is to you.  The traditional carnauba wax now has additives that make it easier to apply, and newer synthetic waxes claim to provide protection for up to a year. 

 

Before you apply the wax, make sure your car is completely free of any dirt as that could end up scratching the finish during the waxing process.  Also it is recommended not to wax your car in the direct sunlight.  Better to do it in a shaded area or a garage and follow directions as to how to apply the wax.   

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