| Auto FAQ: Waxing Tips |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-302 |
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Q: How do I choose the right wax? A: (from Trisha Hessinger, Ask DIY Automotive Expert) This can actually be pretty tricky since all you have to do is walk into an auto parts store and you'll see an entire aisle of products to choose from. The important thing is to know what kind of finish is on your car; most vehicles today have a clear coat finish. If this is the case with your vehicle, you'll simply need to choose a non-abrasive wax to prevent scratching the clear coat. If you've had your vehicle for a year or so and it's starting to look a little dull, you may need to opt for a cleaner wax to remove the dulling build-up. And finally, if your car is fairly old and the paint has oxidized, you'll need to go a step further and use a polishing compound to remove the upper oxidized layer and reveal the fresh color beneath. Q: Do I need to do anything other than wash my car before waxing? A: In many cases, even after washing your car, you may feel a slight layer of grit on the finish as you run your hand over it. To gently and effectively remove the grit, purchase a clay bar product from your auto supply store. This product involves two steps: first, you'll spray a light application of the cleaning solution (sold with the clay bar) on the surface. Then, working only in the sprayed area (using the clay on a dry surface can damage it), gently drag the clay bar across the area (figure A) to remove the grit residue. Q: Is an all-in-one wax and polish better than a separate wax and polish? A: Although a number of car owners still prefer to do these steps independent of one another, there are a number of new products on the market that produce great results with just a single step. To apply this type of product, rub on a light layer (figure B) using an applicator or soft cloth and a circular motion. Once the layer has dried, go back over the area with a clean towel, again using a circular motion (figure C) to reveal a beautiful shine beneath. Q: How do I remove baked-on wax? A: First, a couple of preventive meausures: 1) Never apply wax in a heavy layer, and 2) Never wax a car in the hot sun. If you do find yourself with excessive or baked-on wax, dilute a little laundry detergent in warm water. Then simply apply the solution with a clean cloth, using a circular motion to remove the build-up Another problem that can be a little more difficult to remedy is an accidental smudge or streak of wax on a car's black trim (side mirrors and window seals). To effectively remove wax from these areas (figure D), try a tar and wax remover, available in automotive supply stores. Q: How often should I wax? A: This depends primarily on the car's environment. If the vehicle is garage-kept, it won't need to be waxed as often, maybe just once a year. For those who live in hot climates (Arizona, California, Florida, etc.), waxing about every six months will help the finish stand up to the abuse from constant sun exposure. Final tip: If you're still unsure whether or not your car is due for a wax, check to see if water still beads on the finish. If it doesn't, start waxing!
RESOURCES :
ITT Technical Institute
Special thanks to the ITT Technical Institute for providing the personnel for the Ask DIY Web site video.
ITT Technical Institute
Website: www.itt-tech.edu/
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